tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75889677685928809852018-12-17T04:40:24.547-08:00Kels SharkHi! I'm Kelsea. I recently left the world of accounting to become a full-time jewelry designer, blogger, and small business owner. I craft compulsively, change my hair colors frequently, and delight in finding awesome new artists and shops. Oh, and I love sharks... especially if they're plush and huggable!Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.comBlogger66125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-22931327171548756922015-03-01T09:00:00.000-08:002015-03-01T09:00:00.725-08:00Review: Capture Your Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7gRyHdPhw5k/VPLHBK0pU-I/AAAAAAAAF_Y/EWXDDR2t6Ww/s1600/ROYGBIV%2BKels%2BShark%2BCapture%2BYour%2BLife%2BColor%2BiPhone%2BPhotos%2BPaper%2BSource%2BPlants%2BFlowers%2BPaper%2BGoods.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7gRyHdPhw5k/VPLHBK0pU-I/AAAAAAAAF_Y/EWXDDR2t6Ww/s1600/ROYGBIV%2BKels%2BShark%2BCapture%2BYour%2BLife%2BColor%2BiPhone%2BPhotos%2BPaper%2BSource%2BPlants%2BFlowers%2BPaper%2BGoods.png" /></a></div><br />When I was asked by Cole of Peace and Chaos to provide an honest review of her new ebook, <a href="http://peaceandchaos.com/capture-your-life/"><i>Capture Your Life</i></a>, I decided to go for it! Lately, I have been thinking about expanding my photographic horizons, so the timing was perfect. This post was meant to go up last week, but life got in the way. The good news is... that means the ebook is already available as of a few hours ago - no wait!<br /><br />Since <i>Capture Your Life</i> is all about general photography concepts/tips and how to incorporate them into your life, rather than technical info on how to use cameras, it worked out nicely for me. I'm an amateur photographer with no particular interest in learning the nitty gritty of how to capture the best photos ever - I just wanted to have fun with it and try something new.<br /><a name='more'></a><br />Each of the lessons offered prompts - things to think about in composing and shooting your photos. Lacking the time to try every single lesson, I decided to focus on my favorite one - namely, "I See Colours." To celebrate our second anniversary, Tal and I went out for the day: delicious brunch at <a href="http://tilthrestaurant.com/home/">Tilth</a>, a walk through Wallingford, <a href="https://www.trophycupcakes.com/">Trophy cupcakes</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fuelcoffeeseattle.com/">Fuel coffee</a>.&nbsp;Then we drove to my favorite spot (an outdoor shopping center... yes, I'm cool) for another walk around. Throughout the day, he was incredibly patient while I took around 150 photos of different scenes and items we came across, focusing especially on the colors. The photos were taken with my iPhone so the quality isn't the best, but it was exciting to see how they turned out! I compiled a rainbow-y montage of a few favorite photos above.<br /><br />Though I haven't worked through every single prompt yet (there's quite a bit of content!), I read through them and found them fun, encouraging, and useful.<br /><br />Conclusion? I'd recommend <i>Capture Your Life</i> for someone in my position:<br />- An amateur photographer looking to improve a bit but not too interested in technical details.<br />- Anyone hoping for fun and interesting photo ideas.<br />- A scrapbook/photo journal enthusiast interested in starting up, but whom isn't sure where to start.<br />- Someone who finds they often forget to take daily life photos and wants a little push to begin.<br /><br />Thank you for the review opportunity, Cole! I can't wait to practice more of the lessons! :)<br /><br />P.S. <i><a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/224475979">Capture Your Life</a></i>&nbsp;is $10 (CAD) per PDF copy, but Cole is running a launch special, so it's just $5 (CAD) through March 7. She's also giving away one copy through her <a href="http://peaceandchaos.com/capture-your-life/">blog</a>.Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-24071100838862017032015-02-18T09:00:00.000-08:002015-02-18T09:00:01.075-08:00Outfit: Rose Gold DancerAfter a few weeks of radio silence... I'm back! Most of that time was spent nursing various colds that refused to leave me, so by the end of it, I was more than ready to dress up and get out of the house. Tal and I headed to a cafe for brunch, then walked around for a few hours.<br /><br />It's no secret that Guess is one of my all-time favorite brands. When the stunning dancer dress came out, it immediately joined my covet list. Months later, I had Guess rewards to use up and spotted it on super sale. At just $15 ($50 - $35 of Guess rewards money), it was irresistible! Rose gold is one of my current obsessions and this dress was the perfect starting point for a dreamy outfit. After putting the outfit together, I realized that unintentionally, almost everything was from Guess. Heh. Per my customary practice when leaving the house in heels, I brought along a pair of Tieks to switch to for our walk.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vyl0Fed4bQQ/VOPMuHPKvVI/AAAAAAAAF-M/XHsrRF8Pf2Y/s1600/1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vyl0Fed4bQQ/VOPMuHPKvVI/AAAAAAAAF-M/XHsrRF8Pf2Y/s1600/1.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JGihZk0N6iU/VOPMt2ts63I/AAAAAAAAF-I/bTzmcf9Sqvg/s1600/2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JGihZk0N6iU/VOPMt2ts63I/AAAAAAAAF-I/bTzmcf9Sqvg/s1600/2.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kxVVRANaVck/VOPMuEi88xI/AAAAAAAAF-Q/ze0L5qyE_OQ/s1600/3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kxVVRANaVck/VOPMuEi88xI/AAAAAAAAF-Q/ze0L5qyE_OQ/s1600/3.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DyhaTT11QU8/VOPMuqi2GSI/AAAAAAAAF-U/PG5_6l9dcEQ/s1600/4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DyhaTT11QU8/VOPMuqi2GSI/AAAAAAAAF-U/PG5_6l9dcEQ/s1600/4.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lcOBehEUUg0/VOPMvA4STqI/AAAAAAAAF-Y/PRFcYoSSKdo/s1600/5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lcOBehEUUg0/VOPMvA4STqI/AAAAAAAAF-Y/PRFcYoSSKdo/s1600/5.png" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2aBWxX_e0qU/VOPMvV1RpcI/AAAAAAAAF-c/vUXKu2dvjTI/s1600/6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2aBWxX_e0qU/VOPMvV1RpcI/AAAAAAAAF-c/vUXKu2dvjTI/s1600/6.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://shop.guess.com/en/Catalog/View/W43K3TW3IZ0"><b>Dress</b></a><b>, Coat, Heels, &amp; Purse:</b> <a href="http://shop.guess.com/en/">Guess</a> <b>| Shells Purse Bling: </b><a href="http://www.coach.com/">Coach</a> <b>| Flats: </b><a href="http://tieks.com/metallic-gold.html">Tieks</a> <b>| Bow Necklace: </b><a href="http://www.betseyjohnson.com/">Betsey Johnson</a> <b>| Bow Ring: </b><a href="http://www.katespade.com/">Kate Spade</a> <b>| Dream Ring:</b> <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/c/ariella-collection">Ariella Studio Collection</a> via <a href="https://www.hautelook.com/">Hautelook</a></div>Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-59084591522856895252015-01-28T09:00:00.000-08:002015-01-28T09:00:01.349-08:003-Month Update/Review: Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge Projects!As promised, here's my update on the two projects I did around three months ago using Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge! It's a relatively new product and I had a hard time finding reviews about its effectiveness, so I thought I'd share my experience.<br /><br />I do want to note that I didn't actually put either project in the dishwasher, due to the nature of the projects (coasters, wood cutting boards). However, both frequently encounter liquids.<br /><br />&nbsp; &nbsp; <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/project-spice-up-your-cutting-boards.html"><img alt="Spice Up Your Cutting Boards DIY Project by Kels Shark" src="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/94439006/Project%20Page%20Buttons/Project%20Page%20Buttons-06.jpg" /></a> &nbsp; &nbsp; <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/10/how-to-make-your-own-coasters-project.html"><img alt="The Sweet Life DIY Coaster Project by Kels Shark" src="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/94439006/Project%20Page%20Buttons/Project%20Page%20Buttons-04.jpg" /></a> <br /><br /><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/project-spice-up-your-cutting-boards.html"><b>Cutting Boards</b></a><br />As you might recall, I applied a coat of DSMP over the paint on the board edges. The painted edges still look like they did when I first finished the project. I use these on a daily basis, always washing them after use with water, dish soap, and the soft side of a sponge. Water just rolls right off the edges. No issues!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/10/how-to-make-your-own-coasters-project.html"><b>Coaster Set</b></a><br />I was more nervous about this project because of the papers beneath the DSMP layer. However, they have held up well also! We also use these daily. I did notice that if I put a really hot drink down (i.e. a cup of tea while it's still steeping, so near boiling temperature), the bottom of the mug sometimes sticks slightly to the coaster surface. I just carefully extricate the cup when I notice this and haven't had any problems with permanent damage. Occasionally, rings of liquid end up forming on the surface - one had a coffee ring (looked like a stain) on it. However, even weeks later, I was able to just wipe it off with a damp cloth and there's no hint of the stain remaining.<br /><br /><b>The verdict? DSMP held up very nicely in both cases! I would definitely recommend it for these projects and any similar ones.</b>Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-28862808130889018552015-01-26T09:00:00.000-08:002015-01-26T09:00:01.970-08:00Crazy Kawaii or Die NailsOver the years, I've accumulated quite the nail polish collection. More recently, I've added some of the items from my <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/12/gift-guides-9-for-nail-enthusiast.html">nail enthusiast gift guide</a> to the mix. :) Despite my love of nail polish, I rarely take the time to actually use it. This year, that's going to change! As part of my <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2015/01/shopping-guide-3-2015-planners.html">organizing goal</a> for 2015, I've scheduled at-home manicures for Wednesday nights (while Tal has his guilt-free game night). It's free (no additional cost) and every time I look at my painted nails, I smile. So... you can expect to see more nail looks on the blog here - I've even added a new "nails" button the sidebar. As an added bonus, hopefully I'll get better at painting my nails in the process!<br /><br />This particular look was completely centered around the gorgeous "<a href="http://www.baronessx.com/shop/nail-polish/kawaii-or-die-colorful-star-and-dot-glitter-topper">Kawaii or Die</a>" glitter coat polish by Baroness X. I wanted it to be the focus, but also enjoy painting my nails different colors. So I selected colors that matched some of the glitter chunks and also had a chance to try out both my new <a href="http://www.ebay.com/sch/baby_dolphin_777/m.html?">nail stencils</a>&nbsp;and new Baroness X "<a href="http://www.baronessx.com/shop/nail-polish/mermaid-madness-teal-jelly-with-oodles-of-shimmer-and-glitter">Mermaid Madness</a>" polish!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j--93BKR4AY/VMBG0HSLx2I/AAAAAAAAF8g/ZkcngXD7u3Q/s1600/1%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bnail%2Bpolish%2Bcrazy%2Bkawaii%2Bor%2Bdie%2Bnails%2Bcolorful%2Brainbow%2Bpolish%2Bopi%2Bpriti%2Bnyc%2Bessie%2Bseche%2Bvite.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j--93BKR4AY/VMBG0HSLx2I/AAAAAAAAF8g/ZkcngXD7u3Q/s1600/1%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bnail%2Bpolish%2Bcrazy%2Bkawaii%2Bor%2Bdie%2Bnails%2Bcolorful%2Brainbow%2Bpolish%2Bopi%2Bpriti%2Bnyc%2Bessie%2Bseche%2Bvite.png" /></a></div><a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-98Cg_6z35AE/VMBG0ZXfSDI/AAAAAAAAF8k/kDWkX-8owWo/s1600/2%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bnail%2Bpolish%2Bcrazy%2Bkawaii%2Bor%2Bdie%2Bnails%2Bcolorful%2Brainbow%2Bpolish%2Bopi%2Bpriti%2Bnyc%2Bessie%2Bseche%2Bvite.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-98Cg_6z35AE/VMBG0ZXfSDI/AAAAAAAAF8k/kDWkX-8owWo/s1600/2%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bnail%2Bpolish%2Bcrazy%2Bkawaii%2Bor%2Bdie%2Bnails%2Bcolorful%2Brainbow%2Bpolish%2Bopi%2Bpriti%2Bnyc%2Bessie%2Bseche%2Bvite.png" /></a></div><i>From left to right:</i><br /><b>Thumb Tip:&nbsp;</b>OPI - Cajun Shrimp&nbsp;<i>(one of my faves)</i><br /><b>Thumb Base: </b>Sephora by OPI - Havana Dreams<br /><b>Index Tip:&nbsp;</b>Baroness X - Mermaid Madness<br /><b>Index Base: </b>Sephora by OPI - A True Romantic<br /><b>Middle Tip:&nbsp;</b>Sephora by OPI - Seeing Pink Elepants<br /><b>Middle Base: </b>Priti NYC - Mermaid Rose<br /><b>Ring Top:&nbsp;</b>Baroness X - Kawaii or Die<br /><b>Ring Base: </b>OPI - My Boyfriend Scales Walls<br /><b>Pinky Tip:&nbsp;</b>Essie - Absolutely Shore<br /><b>Pinky Base: </b>Essie - Bikini So Teeny<br /><b>Top Coat: </b>Seche Vite - Dry Fast Top Coat<br /><b>Base Coat:</b>&nbsp;Essie First Base Base Coat<br /><br />This one took forever, but it was so much fun! This was my first time using Baroness X polish and I found it smooth and easy to use. :)<br /><br /><i>Check out more nail looks <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/search/label/nails">here</a>!</i>Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-31625490040536612182015-01-23T09:00:00.000-08:002015-01-23T10:57:56.648-08:0010 Dates Under $10 | Date IdeasQuitting my corporate job last year to start my own business was one of the best things I've ever done for my personal happiness. It wasn't, however, particularly helpful for our finances. :) As such, Tal and I have learned to be more conscious of our spending habits. I thought it would be fun to continue the <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/search/label/date%20ideas">Date Ideas</a> series with these fun and inexpensive ideas for dates on a budget!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KUFfrL7zDFI/VMAUZKw-Z0I/AAAAAAAAF8Q/9jDQ9eWFQGk/s1600/kels%2Bshark%2Bdate%2Bideas%2Bbudget%2Bdate%2Bideas%2Bdates%2Bunder%2B%2410%2Bdates%2Bon%2Ba%2Bbudget%2Bcheap%2Bdate%2Bideas%2Binexpensive%2Bdates%2Bfroyo%2Bfrozen%2Byogurt%2Bmenchies.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KUFfrL7zDFI/VMAUZKw-Z0I/AAAAAAAAF8Q/9jDQ9eWFQGk/s1600/kels%2Bshark%2Bdate%2Bideas%2Bbudget%2Bdate%2Bideas%2Bdates%2Bunder%2B%2410%2Bdates%2Bon%2Ba%2Bbudget%2Bcheap%2Bdate%2Bideas%2Binexpensive%2Bdates%2Bfroyo%2Bfrozen%2Byogurt%2Bmenchies.png" /></a></div><br /><b>1. Gourmet Popcorn + Movie:</b> Make or buy a bag of gourmet popcorn, then cuddle up on the couch and watch a movie on Netflix or Hulu.<br /><br /><b>2. Valentine's Cards: </b>Pick up some paper crafting supplies and make each other cute valentine's cards. Write in the cheesiest love poems you can think up. Make sure you can't see each other's cards until you exchange them at the very end!<br /><br /><div><b>3. Backyard Picnic:</b> Cook your favorite warm dish together and then bring it out for a picnic in the backyard.<br /><br /></div><b>4. Hike + Junk Food:</b> Stop by and pick up each of your favorite junk foods. Bring them with you on a hike and when you reach the top (or a nice spot), sit down and indulge together.<br /><br /><b>5. Surprise Gifts + Guesses:</b> Head to a local outdoor shopping village (one that's pretty to walk around). Split up to purchase tiny gifts for each other and then hide them somewhere on your person. Meet up at a designated spot, then walk around together and try to guess where the other person got your gift and what they got. Have your top three guesses ready for the big reveal at the end where you exchange your gifts and see who guessed right!<br /><br /><b>6. Monster Figurines:</b> Get a few colors of polymer clay and a bag of googly eyes at a local craft store and make silly figures or monsters together. Bake them in the oven for a cute little date keepsake.<br /><br /><b>7. Drink/Snack + Walk:</b> Pick up froyo or hot chocolate at a local shop. Chat and walk around the surrounding area.&nbsp;<i>Tal and I did this just the other day! We got froyo and window shopped at the local University Village.</i><br /><div><br /></div><b>8. Dream Vacation Planning:</b> Buy a pretty notebook and use it to start planning your dream vacation together. You can print and paste pictures in, note the best times of year for your favorite spots, write in any events you'd love to attend, etc. Even if you can't afford it anytime soon or never end up going, it'll be fun to discover each others' travel dreams.<br /><br /><b>9. Evening Doughnuts:</b> Go out for&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/08/frost-doughnuts-in-evening-date-ideas.html">doughnuts in the evening</a>!<br /><br /><b>10. Photobooth:</b> Gather silly items! Scour your house, ask friends for silly party goodies they don't want, check the discount/out-of-season section at a local party store, visit a thrift shop, or make your own from craft supplies and things you find lying around the house. You can even borrow big frames from your photos or make and paint cardboard masks. Find a good spot (blank wall, good lighting) and use your phone to take tons of funny photobooth pics - either manually or via the <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/party-party/id896861219">Party Party app</a> ($0.99). Print your faves and hang them up on the fridge/wall!<br /><br />Sorry for the fuzzy photo! I don't usually bring my camera out so it was taken with my iPhone. What are your favorite inexpensive dates? I'd love to hear your ideas! :)<br /><br /><i style="background-color: white; font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; text-align: justify;">*<a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/search/label/date%20ideas" style="color: #0099cc; text-decoration: none;">Date Ideas</a>&nbsp;is a series where I share cute, simple suggestions for dates. Since I live in Seattle, you'll most likely see Greater Seattle locations, but with a simple online search, they should be easy to recreate in most areas! If you have any cool date ideas you'd like to share, I'd love to hear about them!</i>Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-21750566444405752192015-01-21T10:05:00.000-08:002015-01-21T17:28:01.970-08:00Book Review | The Art of Asking by Amanda Palmer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>From the book description (<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20980987">Goodreads page</a>):</b></div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><i>Rock star, crowdfunding pioneer, and TED speaker Amanda Palmer knows all about asking. Performing as a living statue in a wedding dress, she wordlessly asked thousands of passersby for their dollars. When she became a singer, songwriter, and musician, she was not afraid to ask her audience to support her as she surfed the crowd (and slept on their couches while touring). And when she left her record label to strike out on her own, she asked her fans to support her in making an album, leading to the world's most successful music Kickstarter.</i></span><br /><i><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Even while Amanda is both celebrated and attacked for her fearlessness in asking for help, she finds that there are important things she cannot ask for-as a musician, as a friend, and as a wife. She learns that she isn't alone in this, that so many people are afraid to ask for help, and it paralyzes their lives and relationships. In this groundbreaking book, she explores these barriers in her own life and in the lives of those around her, and discovers the emotional, philosophical, and practical aspects of THE ART OF ASKING.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Part manifesto, part revelation, this is the story of an artist struggling with the new rules of exchange in the twenty-first century, both on and off the Internet. THE ART OF ASKING will inspire readers to rethink their own ideas about asking, giving, art, and love.</span></i><br /><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7aRec1TZ6eY/VLbMBytkg1I/AAAAAAAAF7Q/6hUixeCp2sE/s1600/the%2Bart%2Bof%2Basking%2Bby%2Bamanda%2Bpalmer%2Bbook%2Breview%2Bkels%2Bshark-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7aRec1TZ6eY/VLbMBytkg1I/AAAAAAAAF7Q/6hUixeCp2sE/s1600/the%2Bart%2Bof%2Basking%2Bby%2Bamanda%2Bpalmer%2Bbook%2Breview%2Bkels%2Bshark-01.jpg" /></a></div><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><b></b></span> <a name='more'></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><b>My review (<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1164780554">Goodreads version</a>):</b></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Though Amanda Palmer has inspired strong emotions in countless people, ranging from extreme, vocal hatred to cult-like devotion, I had never heard of her before learning of <i>The Art of Asking</i>. The only reason I knew about her book was because I follow her husband, Neil Gaiman, on Goodreads. He wrote a post when her book launched, urging his readers to go and check out his wife's first foray into the world of published writing. The premise sounded intriguing, so I left my usual preferred genre (fantasy fiction) to give Palmer's memoir a try.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">I put a hold on the book via Overdrive/the library and waited for my turn. Eventually, it came around and I downloaded the audio version to listen via my phone. Palmer narrates her own story and does a fairly decent job of it, though there is a clear distinction between the quality of her reading vs. a professional narrator. There are odd pauses and abrupt sentences, but nothing that irritated me to the point of distraction. Palmer also plays some of her music throughout the audio version, which I really enjoyed. The music itself isn't really my style, but I thought it helped a lot in understanding where she was at different points in her life/story and offered helpful additions to the written content, the way you'd enjoy a sketch or world map in a fantasy novel.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Palmer's story is well-structured, following her journey in chronological order. She mentions key conversations and makes relevant references to them at later points. Palmer's literary voice is strong, consistent, and clear, carrying readers easily through the narrative.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">I was blown away by Palmer as a person. She's incredibly successful and daring (being a living statue would be my introverted self's nightmare). She is a smart musician with a strong understanding of what her fans need and how to grow her artistic business. She talks about getting naked and letting fans write on her and about how she stripped to make money in the early days of her band. And the best part? She does it all without a single apology or lengthy discussions about shame. This is exactly what we need more of - people who don't think that every accomplishment needs to come with a big dose of embarassment; people who are not afraid to own who they are and what they're comfortable with, even if it goes against societal norms. Personally, I am extremely uncomfortable with nudity in general, but I'm so, so happy to read the perspective of someone who is comfortable with nudity and feels no need to apologize for it.</span></span><br /><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Palmer is also willing to let us in on her problems, insecurities, and fears. She's honest and direct about both the positive and the negative. Her threshold for discomfort with sharing and personal space are very low and she shares a lot of very personal experiences. So many people spend so much time spinning the positive ("My life is perfect and I'm always happy every day - just look at all of my smiling Facebook photos") or spinning the negative ("[<u>Insert name of person, city, organization, etc.</u>] hates me and the world is a horrible place - just look at [<u>insert event</u>] that happened to me today"). It's refreshing to find someone who is willing to discuss both sides.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><i>The Art of Asking</i>&nbsp;isn't just about asking, but it's a strong theme of the narrative. Palmer makes valuable points about our relationship with asking and loosely backs them with anecdotes. I say "loosely" because she doesn't approach it with a "this is my thesis and here are some relevant stories to back it" attitude. Rather, she shares insights at various points and stories at others and sometimes they tie together.&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">One thing I found to be a pleasant surprise was her discussion of artist validation. I hadn't considered that she would have a perspective on the issue, but it resonated deeply with me. As a former accountant with a structured office job with set titles, pay scales, and promotions who recently transitioned into the world of independent art, blogging, and small business ownership, her discussions rang true. It is incredibly difficult to feel validated as an artist, for so many reasons. I appreciated the way Palmer offered perspective and support to her fellow artists.</span><br /><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Palmer is the kind of person who would probably make me feel very uncomfortable in person due to the vast differences in our personalities and styles, but whose story and perspective I loved reading. We need more strong female voices and perspectives, like Palmer's, in our world. I chose to review this book (out of the many I've read lately) because so many of the reviews seem to be skewed by prior opinions on Palmer, her lifestyle, and her music. Since I hadn't known of any of those prior to reading the book, I hope to add a less biased review to the mix.</span></span><br /><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">I couldn't give the book a full five stars because it wasn't top quality author material. I wouldn't expect it of a first time writer whose primary profession isn't writing, but I keep pretty high standards for a five star rating. However, the content itself was top notch.</span></span><br /><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><b><span style="color: #181818;">Content: </span><span style="color: blue;">5.0</span><span style="color: #181818;">/5.0</span></b></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><b><span style="color: #181818;">Audio Narration: </span><span style="color: blue;">4.0</span><span style="color: #181818;">/5.0</span></b></span></span></div><div><b><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Overall:&nbsp;</span></span><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><span style="color: magenta;">4.5</span></span><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">/5.0</span></b></div><div><b><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><span style="color: #181818;">CONCLUSION:&nbsp;</span><span style="color: magenta;">Highly Recommended</span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><a href="http://amandapalmer.net/">Where to buy</a></span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">P.S. I decided to start doing book reviews as part of the <a href="http://peaceandchaos.com/category/rebel-book-club/">rebel book club</a>, started by Cole of <a href="http://peaceandchaos.com/">Peace and Chaos</a>. Plus, I <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/13988402-kelsea?shelf=reviewed&amp;view=table">reviewed</a> 26 books on Goodreads last year and never posted the reviews anywhere else. So I might as well start adding them to the blog! :)</span></div>Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-7979716010802760102015-01-17T09:00:00.000-08:002015-01-30T11:44:46.511-08:00Outfit: Zombie Bat<i><b>Quick shop news</b>: I'm participating in Twinkie Chan's giveaway this month, so head over to <a href="http://blog.twinkiechan.com/2015/01/15/january-blog-sponsor-giveaway-2/">her blog</a> for a chance to win $40 to <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/kelseaecho">my shop</a>! From now through the end of January, I'm also offering 20% off any order (biggest discount ever) with the coupon code "<b>EARLYVALENTINES20</b>"!</i><br /><br />Honestly, this outfit was born out of my desire to wear two of my Christmas presents from Tal immediately. Heh. The composition is a little wild for my usual style, but it was so much fun! These were taken a few weeks ago, when I still had my <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2015/01/peppermint-holiday-nails.html">peppermint holiday nails</a>.<br /><br />Yes, those are <i>detachable bat wings</i>&nbsp;on the hoodie. Thank you, <a href="http://skelanimals.com/">Skelanimals</a>, for adding a little bit of awesome to my life. :) The leggings are by talented artist Jen of <a href="http://www.noflutter.com/">No Flutter</a>, whose work I've been goggling at on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NoFlutter">Facebook</a> for a little while now.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tWSQJKN9DEA/VLbBi2yut5I/AAAAAAAAF54/OZ7B4BEpceM/s1600/1%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bzombie%2Bbat%2Bskelanimals%2Bdiego%2Bhoodie%2Bbat%2Bwings%2Banimal%2Bsweatshirt%2Bno%2Bflutter%2Bnoflutter%2Bwild%2Bbangarang%2Bprinted%2Bart%2Bleggings%2Bgreen%2Bzombie%2Bgirl%2Bpastels%2Bpink%2Bhair.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tWSQJKN9DEA/VLbBi2yut5I/AAAAAAAAF54/OZ7B4BEpceM/s1600/1%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bzombie%2Bbat%2Bskelanimals%2Bdiego%2Bhoodie%2Bbat%2Bwings%2Banimal%2Bsweatshirt%2Bno%2Bflutter%2Bnoflutter%2Bwild%2Bbangarang%2Bprinted%2Bart%2Bleggings%2Bgreen%2Bzombie%2Bgirl%2Bpastels%2Bpink%2Bhair.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O-TldTLAzdg/VLbBi3AMOMI/AAAAAAAAF58/7bao9jv3ToQ/s1600/2%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bzombie%2Bbat%2Bskelanimals%2Bdiego%2Bhoodie%2Bbat%2Bwings%2Banimal%2Bsweatshirt%2Bno%2Bflutter%2Bnoflutter%2Bwild%2Bbangarang%2Bprinted%2Bart%2Bleggings%2Bgreen%2Bzombie%2Bgirl%2Bpastels%2Bpink%2Bhair.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><a name='more'></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O-TldTLAzdg/VLbBi3AMOMI/AAAAAAAAF58/7bao9jv3ToQ/s1600/2%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bzombie%2Bbat%2Bskelanimals%2Bdiego%2Bhoodie%2Bbat%2Bwings%2Banimal%2Bsweatshirt%2Bno%2Bflutter%2Bnoflutter%2Bwild%2Bbangarang%2Bprinted%2Bart%2Bleggings%2Bgreen%2Bzombie%2Bgirl%2Bpastels%2Bpink%2Bhair.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O-TldTLAzdg/VLbBi3AMOMI/AAAAAAAAF58/7bao9jv3ToQ/s1600/2%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bzombie%2Bbat%2Bskelanimals%2Bdiego%2Bhoodie%2Bbat%2Bwings%2Banimal%2Bsweatshirt%2Bno%2Bflutter%2Bnoflutter%2Bwild%2Bbangarang%2Bprinted%2Bart%2Bleggings%2Bgreen%2Bzombie%2Bgirl%2Bpastels%2Bpink%2Bhair.png" /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vQOrVU-6ZdQ/VLbBipgKb0I/AAAAAAAAF50/0HwzuVph1-A/s1600/3%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bzombie%2Bbat%2Bskelanimals%2Bdiego%2Bhoodie%2Bbat%2Bwings%2Banimal%2Bsweatshirt%2Bno%2Bflutter%2Bnoflutter%2Bwild%2Bbangarang%2Bprinted%2Bart%2Bleggings%2Bgreen%2Bzombie%2Bgirl%2Bpastels%2Bpink%2Bhair.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vQOrVU-6ZdQ/VLbBipgKb0I/AAAAAAAAF50/0HwzuVph1-A/s1600/3%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bzombie%2Bbat%2Bskelanimals%2Bdiego%2Bhoodie%2Bbat%2Bwings%2Banimal%2Bsweatshirt%2Bno%2Bflutter%2Bnoflutter%2Bwild%2Bbangarang%2Bprinted%2Bart%2Bleggings%2Bgreen%2Bzombie%2Bgirl%2Bpastels%2Bpink%2Bhair.png" /></a></div><b>T-shirt &amp; Hoodie</b>: <a href="http://shop.skelanimals.com/collections/womens-tops/products/diego-bat-hoodie">Sklelanimals</a> | <b>Necklace</b>: <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/212780111">Kelsea Echo</a> | <b>Leggings</b>: <a href="http://www.wildbangarang.com/collections/leggings/products/wbmissghoul">Wild Bangarang</a> ft. <a href="http://www.noflutter.com/">No Flutter</a> | <b>Flats</b>: <a href="http://tieks.com/cardinal-red.html">Tieks</a><br /><br />Now if only those bat wings could actually help me fly... ;)Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-51865658213288602462015-01-15T09:00:00.001-08:002015-01-15T09:56:50.503-08:00"Family Portrait" Sketches by TalI thought it would be fun to share the drawings Tal did for our first (2013) and second (2014) annual holiday cards! Since we were so late in getting it all compiled, we ended up calling the 2014 card a "Christmas &amp; New Year Card" and sending it out after New Year anyway (ran out of blank cards, envelopes, and stamps... oops). We'll work on promptness this December! :)<br /><br />For last year's card, Tal drew me holding my fave plush, a whale shark he got me for my birthday that year. Tal is holding his son. If you're confused by hearing about Tal's son for the first time, I should note that I don't usually write about him here out of respect for Tal's privacy wishes, but we're lucky that we get to see him on a regular basis. He, of course, is an important part of our card. :) We didn't have Illustrator until last year, so Tal drew his sketch using the Sketchbook Pro app on his tablet.<br /><br />For this year's card, Tal drew us all dressed up to indicate something new in our lives this year. I'm a unicorn because now that I work from home, I can wear whatever I want to work (and he actually bought me a <a href="http://instagram.com/p/wEwIG5EijR">unicorn kigurumi</a> for Christmas)! Tal is a zombie because he started working as a game data analyst for a gaming company this year. His son is a stormtrooper because he's now obsessed with Star Wars - we took him trick or treating in his Captain Rex costume for Halloween. :) Tal used Illustrator this time around - he's playing around with it and learning Illustrator bit by bit in his free time.<br /><br />Isn't Tal talented? I love his cute, comic style art! I'm always encouraging him to start a comic blog... hehe.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XPYlipTF25o/VLbfUwkuagI/AAAAAAAAF74/5lDo6CJrdDQ/s1600/kels%2Bshark%2Bchristmas%2Bcard%2Bsketches%2Bunicorn%2Bkigurumi%2Bzombie%2Bstormtrooper%2Bshark.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XPYlipTF25o/VLbfUwkuagI/AAAAAAAAF74/5lDo6CJrdDQ/s1600/kels%2Bshark%2Bchristmas%2Bcard%2Bsketches%2Bunicorn%2Bkigurumi%2Bzombie%2Bstormtrooper%2Bshark.png" /></a></div><b>Left</b>: 2013 Family Portrait | <b>Right</b>: 2014 Family PortraitKelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-26343907804028698162015-01-13T09:00:00.000-08:002015-01-13T09:41:53.540-08:00Books & Favorite Books Read in 2014I got the idea to post this 2014 book recap from Mandy of <a href="http://www.anerdyworld.com/2015/01/recently-read-2014-recap.html">A Nerdy World</a>&nbsp;<span style="font-size: x-small;">(see her recap <a href="http://www.anerdyworld.com/2015/01/recently-read-2014-recap.html">here</a>)</span>. Apparently, I read 107 books last year! I will note that this includes a handful of unfinished books, a cookbook, a doll photography book, and some books that I reread. I also listened to some of my favorites multiple times throughout the year!<br /><br />I wrote about a few favorites in <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/09/books-and-audiobooks-my-story-and.html">September</a>, so some of these I've written about already. Here are my favorites from my 2014 list! I know 11 is a weird number, but I just picked all of my faves and that's how it turned out. Short blurbs about each book down below the book collage. I included the narrator if I've listened to the audio version. :)<br /><br /><b><u>Favorite Books Read in 2014</u></b><br />1. <b><i>Neverwhere</i></b>, by Neil Gaiman<br />2. <b><i>Words of Radiance</i></b>, by Brandon Sanderson<br />3. <b><i>Steelheart</i></b>, by Brandon Sanderson<br />4. <b><i>Big Little Lies</i></b>, by Liane Moriarty<br />5. <b><i>Daughter of Smoke and Bone</i></b>, by Laini Taylor<br />6. <b><i>The Black Prism</i></b>, by Brent Weeks<br />7. <b><i>Barrayar</i></b>, by Lois McMaster Bujold<br />8. <b><i>Tigana</i></b>, by Guy Gavriel Kay<br />9. <b><i>Divergent</i></b>, by Veronica Roth<br />10. <b><i>Before I Fall</i></b>, by Lauren Oliver<br />11. <b><i>Inamorata</i></b>, by Megan Chance<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TTMXHeuUAdU/VLQojUJU9dI/AAAAAAAAF4U/07Bxd904u38/s1600/1%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bblog%2Bbooks%2Bread%2Bin%2B2014%2Breading%2Blist%2Bgoodreads.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TTMXHeuUAdU/VLQojUJU9dI/AAAAAAAAF4U/07Bxd904u38/s1600/1%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bblog%2Bbooks%2Bread%2Bin%2B2014%2Breading%2Blist%2Bgoodreads.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wSJa9rUqSsU/VLQojQrFXNI/AAAAAAAAF4Q/_QaEUNbOqwQ/s1600/2%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bblog%2Bbooks%2Bread%2Bin%2B2014%2Breading%2Blist%2Bgoodreads.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><a name='more'></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wSJa9rUqSsU/VLQojQrFXNI/AAAAAAAAF4Q/_QaEUNbOqwQ/s1600/2%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bblog%2Bbooks%2Bread%2Bin%2B2014%2Breading%2Blist%2Bgoodreads.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wSJa9rUqSsU/VLQojQrFXNI/AAAAAAAAF4Q/_QaEUNbOqwQ/s1600/2%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bblog%2Bbooks%2Bread%2Bin%2B2014%2Breading%2Blist%2Bgoodreads.png" /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oX4iU6IrM5A/VLQojQNMcwI/AAAAAAAAF4Y/D9keoWrr5p0/s1600/3%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bblog%2Bbooks%2Bread%2Bin%2B2014%2Breading%2Blist%2Bgoodreads.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oX4iU6IrM5A/VLQojQNMcwI/AAAAAAAAF4Y/D9keoWrr5p0/s1600/3%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bblog%2Bbooks%2Bread%2Bin%2B2014%2Breading%2Blist%2Bgoodreads.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bsDxmXUkHHM/VLQokF72sFI/AAAAAAAAF4c/4YUI7uq36Ok/s1600/4%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bblog%2Bbooks%2Bread%2Bin%2B2014%2Breading%2Blist%2Bgoodreads.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bsDxmXUkHHM/VLQokF72sFI/AAAAAAAAF4c/4YUI7uq36Ok/s1600/4%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bblog%2Bbooks%2Bread%2Bin%2B2014%2Breading%2Blist%2Bgoodreads.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/13988402-kelsea?read_at=2014&amp;view=covers">Link to my books read in 2014</a></i></div><br /><b>1.&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/911916552"><b>NEVERWHERE</b></a>&nbsp;<b>|&nbsp;Author &amp; Narrator: Neil Gaiman</b><br />I've listened to this three or four times already since first reading it in May. It's already one of my all-time favorite books. The magical, dream-like but dark themes combined with Neil Gaiman's expert reading of the novel make it perfect for re-listening while I work.<br /><br /><b>2.&nbsp;WORDS OF RADIANCE |&nbsp;Author: Brandon Sanderson | Narrators: Michael Kramer &amp; Kate Reading</b><br />This is the second book of the Stormlight Archive, written by my favorite author. I'm dying for the next book to come out! I found Kate Reading's narration a bit annoying at times, but not so much so that I couldn't bear to listen. Nothing I say can do this series justice. If you're into fantasy, just read the series, but start with The Way of Kings.<br /><br /><b>3.&nbsp;STEELHEART | Author: Brandon Sanderson | Narrator: MacLeod Andrews</b><br />Book one of the Reckoners (I just read book two). Another awesome Sanderson series and though it's technically his YA series, it doesn't feel particularly YA. A must-read for anyone who loves the fantasy genre (like me!).<br /><b><br /></b><b>4. BIG LITTLE LIES | Author: Liane Moriarty | Narrator: Caroline Lee</b><br />In December 2013, I read my first Moriarty novel,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/759603091">The Husband's Secret</a>. I was enamored. Moriarty is&nbsp;<i>so good</i>&nbsp;at writing people and interactions. They're believably raw, and very, very real. Her books are murder mysteries, minus the usual blood and gore (and sometimes the murder). Big Little Lies is my favorite of the three Moriarty books I've read so far (though I enjoyed them all). It also shone a big, bright spotlight on a very powerful and oft-ignored issue. I love it when fiction authors manage to incorporate important issues and perspectives. Highly recommended!<br /><b><br /></b><b>5. DAUGHTER OF SMOKE AND BONE | Author: Laini Taylor | Narrator: Khristine Hvam</b><br />This is the first and (I think) best book of the trilogy, but the rest is good enough to be worth finishing the series. Blue-haired heroine, magic, and a powerful picture of religious conflict. Though the factions are fictional, it has real world application. You see how the stories are different, how events got distorted in the histories, how hate can continue to fuel itself over the centuries. Painful to read at times because war is just that: painful. Great trilogy!<br /><b><br /></b><b>6. THE BLACK PRISM | Author: Brent Weeks</b><br />This series is still being written. This is the first book in the series and my favorite so far. I do plan to continue reading it, though, so we'll see how everything turns out.<br /><b><br /></b><b>7.&nbsp;BARRAYAR | Author: Lois McMaster Bujold | Narrator: Grover Gardner</b><br />My favorite Vorkosigan book is (go figure) not about Miles. Rather, it's about his mother, the incredible Cordelia. I wish Bujold had written more books from the perspective of this incredibly badass lady. Cordelia, a fearless, honest scientist from what she considers a rather civilized world, is horrified by the customs of her new husband's "backwater" homeworld (her new place of residence). She is not at all afraid to say what she thinks.&nbsp;<i>Barrayar</i>&nbsp;had me laughing a LOT.<br /><b><br /></b><b>8. TIGANA | Author: Guy Gavriel Kay | Narrator: Simon Vance</b><br />This is not a book meant for light reading. When I saw Brandon Sanderson write that his favorite fantasy author was Guy Gavriel Kay, I knew I had to read some of his books. Kay is not shy in the least, bringing up heavily tabooed subjects without the flashy, novelty quality that really makes me despise George R. R. Martin's books (sorry, GoT fans). His themes are raw and he writes in gore when necessary. Kay's characters do horrible things to each other. And despite this all (I'm not usually a gore fan), I loved&nbsp;<i>Tigana</i>. Kay's stories are painful but powerful.<br /><b><br /></b><b>9.&nbsp;DIVERGENT | Author: Veronica Roth | Narrator: Emma Galvin</b><br />Everyone has probably heard of this series by now. The second book was just alright and I didn't finish the series (read too many warnings to stay away from the last book), but I really enjoyed&nbsp;<i>Divergent</i>. I would write a more exciting blurb if it the series had lived up to its potential, but I do like to give credit where due, regardless. This particular book is worth reading.<br /><b><br /></b><b>10. BEFORE I FALL | Author:&nbsp;Lauren Oliver | Narrator: Sarah Drew</b><br />This is a YA book (a genre I read sometimes but isn't my primary genre of choice) and based on the premise, I honestly didn't expect to like it as much as I did. I thought it might be repetitive, since it's about Samantha living the same day over and over. However, Oliver does a decent job of not falling into this trap, by introducing new information and sometimes different events into each re-lived day. I loved seeing Samantha's transformation and growth, even knowing already how it would end. Some of &nbsp;the male voices narrated by Sarah Drew were a bit irritating, but I still enjoyed the audio version.<br /><b><br /></b><b>11.&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/992289559"><b>INAMORATA</b></a>&nbsp;<b>| Author:&nbsp;Megan Chance</b><br />As an Amazon Prime member and Kindle owner, I get to choose one of four free books every month through the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/digital/kindle/first">Kindle First</a>&nbsp;program. To be honest, they're usually rather terrible. Still, it's hard to pass up a free book, so I usually pick one up anyway.&nbsp;<i>Inamorata</i>&nbsp;was one of those books. Due to the usual quality of Kindle First books, this took me by surprise. So lyrical, slightly sinister, and very much tiptoeing on the edge of taboo. Though the ending wasn't particularly satisfying, it was quite the read.<br /><br />What are <i>your</i>&nbsp;favorite books read in 2014?<br /><br />Feel free to <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/13988402-kelsea">add me</a> on Goodreads!Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-81356312917206448672015-01-07T12:00:00.000-08:002015-01-07T12:42:04.337-08:00Peppermint Holiday NailsI'm posting this pretty late, but I wanted to share the nails I did for the holidays! Remember the <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/12/gift-guides-9-for-nail-enthusiast.html">nail enthusiast gift guide</a> I posted last month? Well, super sweet Kelly of <a href="http://nail-mail.co.uk/">Nail Mail</a>&nbsp;(#8 in the gift guide)&nbsp;sent me an <a href="http://instagram.com/p/wmfA6_kiuR">amazing package</a> of nail decals to try out!<br /><br />I'm kinda meh at doing nails, so you should definitely check out the site (<a href="http://nail-mail.co.uk/">website</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/NailStencils">etsy</a>) for better pics of the decals' results. But this was my first time ever using nail stickers and I have to say, these were pretty easy to use! I just followed the instructions that came with the stickers and did all of it while watching Love Actually. :)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pur82o5eMTg/VK2aEHoru-I/AAAAAAAAF3g/qgxtZyDk73w/s1600/kels%2Bshark%2Bnail%2Bmail%2Buk%2Bnail%2Bstickers%2Bnail%2Bdecals%2Bchristmas%2Bholiday%2Bholidays%2Bpeppermint%2Bred%2BOPI%2Bim%2Breally%2Bnot%2Ba%2Bwaitress%2Bswatch%2BO.P.I.%2Bmy%2Bboyfriend%2Bscales%2Bwalls.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pur82o5eMTg/VK2aEHoru-I/AAAAAAAAF3g/qgxtZyDk73w/s1600/kels%2Bshark%2Bnail%2Bmail%2Buk%2Bnail%2Bstickers%2Bnail%2Bdecals%2Bchristmas%2Bholiday%2Bholidays%2Bpeppermint%2Bred%2BOPI%2Bim%2Breally%2Bnot%2Ba%2Bwaitress%2Bswatch%2BO.P.I.%2Bmy%2Bboyfriend%2Bscales%2Bwalls.png" /></a></div><b>Base Coat:</b> <a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod1800117">Seche Vite Crystal Clear Base Coat</a><br /><b>White Polish:</b> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/OPI-Lacquer-M37-Boyfriend-Scales/dp/B007XX4EYU">OPI My Boyfriend Scales Walls</a><br /><b>Red Polish:</b> <a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?skuId=6052436&amp;productId=xlsImpprod5180201">OPI I'm Really Not a Waitress</a><br /><b>Top Coat:</b> <a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=prod6051231&amp;categoryId=cat80070">Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat</a><br /><b>Stickers:</b>&nbsp;c/o Nail Mail Reindeer (<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/211024622">solo</a> or <a href="http://nail-mail.co.uk/product/xmas-vinyls-bumper-pack-save-20/">pack</a>), Tree (<a href="http://nail-mail.co.uk/product/xmas-vinyls-bumper-pack-save-20/">pack</a>), <a href="http://nail-mail.co.uk/product/straight-lines/">Straight Lines</a><br /><br />Can't wait to try more of the nail stickers! :)Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-28700760134509356232015-01-01T12:00:00.000-08:002015-01-01T12:00:03.002-08:00Shopping Guide 3 | 2015 Planners & OrganizersHey everyone! I took a little blog/biz break for the holidays - will write a bit more about what's going on in life soon. But for today, I want to say <b>HAPPY NEW YEAR</b>! I'm a bit on and off about making resolutions. This year, I have just one: figure out an effective weekly work schedule/routine. Since becoming 100% the boss of my daily work decisions, life, and schedule last year, I've had a hard time figuring out how to best be productive, efficient, and consistent. Sooo... to accomplish this goal, I'm splurging on a pretty weekly planner. I used to use paper planners in college to keep track of everything and it helped a lot, so years later, I'm giving it another try. :)<br /><br />Anyway, here are my planner picks for 2015! I'm getting the Papaya Art weekly planner (#2), which happens to be 50% off right now (!!). :)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VIEfxI3J_hE/VKTw0J9oWAI/AAAAAAAAF24/GxTuloYMVL0/s1600/shopping%2Bguide%2B3%2Bplanners%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bgift%2Bideas%2Bweek%2Bto%2Bview%2Bideas%2B2015%2Bcalendars%2Bbest%2Bplanners%2Bpapaya%2Bart%2Bpaperchase%2Bagenda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VIEfxI3J_hE/VKTw0J9oWAI/AAAAAAAAF24/GxTuloYMVL0/s1600/shopping%2Bguide%2B3%2Bplanners%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bgift%2Bideas%2Bweek%2Bto%2Bview%2Bideas%2B2015%2Bcalendars%2Bbest%2Bplanners%2Bpapaya%2Bart%2Bpaperchase%2Bagenda.jpg" /></a></div><a name='more'></a>1: Sugar and Type |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/181768860">2015 Rule the World Planner</a>, $32<br />2: Papaya Art | <a href="http://papayaart.com/papaya/cards-paper/calendars.html?cat=198">Weekly Planners</a>, <strike>$24</strike> $12 on sale!<br />3: Easy Peasy Paper |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/213697371">2014 Printable Planner</a>, $19.30<br />4: Bee Socks |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/210445554">2015 Winter Fox Planner</a>, $8<br />5: Nan's Attic 527 |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/115707604">2015 Little Golden Alice in Wonderland Agenda</a>, $24.95<br />6: Life is Crafted |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/191059214">A5 Day per Page Starter Pack - 2015 Planner</a>, $80<br />7: Mooks Bakery |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/176006701">2015 Agenda</a>, $30<br />8: Paperchase | <a href="http://www.paperchase-usa.com/stationery/diaries-organisers/diaries/a5-wtv-cupcake-glitter-wiro-2015.html">A5 Glitter Cupcake Week to View Diary 2015</a>, $14.25<br />9: Papaya Art |&nbsp;<a href="http://papayaart.com/papaya/cards-paper/pocket-planners.html">Pocket Planners</a>, $9.50<br />10: Dreamscape |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.paperchase-usa.com/stationery/diaries-organisers/a5-wtv-dreamscape-fox-pp-2015.html">Fox A5 Week to View 2015 Diary</a>, $14.25<br />11: Susie Ghahremani via Shana Logic |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.shanalogic.com/owl-squirrel-weekly-planner.html">Owl &amp; Squirrel Weekly Planner</a>, $15<br /><div>12: Paperchase | <a href="http://www.paperchase-usa.com/stationery/diaries-organisers/diaries/mini-vinyl-aqua-glitter-2015.html">Mini Vinyl Aqua Glitter Diary 2015</a>, $8</div><br /><div>P.S. Thank you for all of your comments on my last few posts! I'm behind on my blog reading, but I'm looking forward to catching up with your blogs. And I've got lots more fun stuff planned for my blog soon. To those who celebrate, hope you had wonderful holidays! &lt;3</div>Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-10265167102150622502014-12-14T08:30:00.000-08:002014-12-14T13:17:32.888-08:00"Black Thorn" | OOAK Necklace to Benefit the M.A.C. AIDS FundA few weeks ago, Keifla, the awesome M.A.C. artist who did my makeup for the <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/09/urban-vibes-photo-shoot-with-jess.html">Urban Vibes photoshoot</a>, contacted me asking if I'd be interested in donating a jewelry piece for a huge charity event benefiting the <a href="https://www.macaidsfund.org/">M.A.C. AIDS Fund</a>. It took me about one heartbeat to say yes, of course!<br /><div><br /></div><div>He mentioned that the audience would be other M.A.C. artists and that as such, black jewelry would probably work best. With that in mind, I came up with "Black Thorn", a one-of-a-kind necklace that will be sold via silent auction at the event today!</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BekyWYYcUEE/VIYb-_44suI/AAAAAAAAFzI/pQTA1R-2Imc/s1600/3%2Bkelsea%2Becho%2Bone%2Bof%2Ba%2Bkind%2BOOAK%2Bblack%2Bthorn%2Bsilver%2Brose%2Bcameo%2Bcharm%2Bnecklace%2Bcharity%2Bfor%2Bbenefit%2Bmac%2Baids%2Brelief%2Bfund.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BekyWYYcUEE/VIYb-_44suI/AAAAAAAAFzI/pQTA1R-2Imc/s1600/3%2Bkelsea%2Becho%2Bone%2Bof%2Ba%2Bkind%2BOOAK%2Bblack%2Bthorn%2Bsilver%2Brose%2Bcameo%2Bcharm%2Bnecklace%2Bcharity%2Bfor%2Bbenefit%2Bmac%2Baids%2Brelief%2Bfund.png" /></a></div><a name='more'></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OtybFFM9FDQ/VIYb-aaAapI/AAAAAAAAFzE/m-opofWjPQw/s1600/2%2Bkelsea%2Becho%2Bone%2Bof%2Ba%2Bkind%2BOOAK%2Bblack%2Bthorn%2Bsilver%2Brose%2Bcameo%2Bcharm%2Bnecklace%2Bcharity%2Bfor%2Bbenefit%2Bmac%2Baids%2Brelief%2Bfund.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OtybFFM9FDQ/VIYb-aaAapI/AAAAAAAAFzE/m-opofWjPQw/s1600/2%2Bkelsea%2Becho%2Bone%2Bof%2Ba%2Bkind%2BOOAK%2Bblack%2Bthorn%2Bsilver%2Brose%2Bcameo%2Bcharm%2Bnecklace%2Bcharity%2Bfor%2Bbenefit%2Bmac%2Baids%2Brelief%2Bfund.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LtiCEVce4Bc/VIYb-9q1EeI/AAAAAAAAFzQ/vGX8J49OZR4/s1600/1%2Bkelsea%2Becho%2Bone%2Bof%2Ba%2Bkind%2BOOAK%2Bblack%2Bthorn%2Bsilver%2Brose%2Bcameo%2Bcharm%2Bnecklace%2Bcharity%2Bfor%2Bbenefit%2Bmac%2Baids%2Brelief%2Bfund.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LtiCEVce4Bc/VIYb-9q1EeI/AAAAAAAAFzQ/vGX8J49OZR4/s1600/1%2Bkelsea%2Becho%2Bone%2Bof%2Ba%2Bkind%2BOOAK%2Bblack%2Bthorn%2Bsilver%2Brose%2Bcameo%2Bcharm%2Bnecklace%2Bcharity%2Bfor%2Bbenefit%2Bmac%2Baids%2Brelief%2Bfund.png" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dg6gp64I8nE/VIYb_IWmdeI/AAAAAAAAFzM/6uGZNTwnLRg/s1600/4%2Bkelsea%2Becho%2Bone%2Bof%2Ba%2Bkind%2BOOAK%2Bblack%2Bthorn%2Bsilver%2Brose%2Bcameo%2Bcharm%2Bnecklace%2Bcharity%2Bfor%2Bbenefit%2Bmac%2Baids%2Brelief%2Bfund.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dg6gp64I8nE/VIYb_IWmdeI/AAAAAAAAFzM/6uGZNTwnLRg/s1600/4%2Bkelsea%2Becho%2Bone%2Bof%2Ba%2Bkind%2BOOAK%2Bblack%2Bthorn%2Bsilver%2Brose%2Bcameo%2Bcharm%2Bnecklace%2Bcharity%2Bfor%2Bbenefit%2Bmac%2Baids%2Brelief%2Bfund.png" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1ajEZP6jPao/VIYb_mbDy8I/AAAAAAAAFzU/OwB-OJ30E70/s1600/5%2Bkelsea%2Becho%2Bone%2Bof%2Ba%2Bkind%2BOOAK%2Bblack%2Bthorn%2Bsilver%2Brose%2Bcameo%2Bcharm%2Bnecklace%2Bcharity%2Bfor%2Bbenefit%2Bmac%2Baids%2Brelief%2Bfund.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1ajEZP6jPao/VIYb_mbDy8I/AAAAAAAAFzU/OwB-OJ30E70/s1600/5%2Bkelsea%2Becho%2Bone%2Bof%2Ba%2Bkind%2BOOAK%2Bblack%2Bthorn%2Bsilver%2Brose%2Bcameo%2Bcharm%2Bnecklace%2Bcharity%2Bfor%2Bbenefit%2Bmac%2Baids%2Brelief%2Bfund.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>For this piece, I gave it a light, metallic silver shimmer and then spray sealed it for protection. I then secured silver stud rhinestones to the cameo setting and attached it to a silver bail (the loop at the top that allows it to hang from a necklace). Then, I added sixteen black and silver charms, including: a Czech glass leaf and flower I brought back from Prague (when I studied there in college), carved stone black skull, silver filigree, Swarovski crystal headpin, and more.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm really happy with how this piece turned out and plan to make more like this for my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/kelseaecho">shop</a>! It's similar in style to the necklace I made for the <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/09/urban-vibes-photo-shoot-with-jess.html">photoshoot</a>. I definitely want to make more charm jewelry and recently got a shipment of awesome new charms in, so you'll see pieces like this being added to the shop soon.</div><div><br /></div><div>I love making pieces to benefit charities and am honored that Keifla thought of me. Thanks for including me in your event! :)</div>Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-73656084833799404352014-12-10T08:30:00.000-08:002014-12-14T13:23:32.678-08:002014 Winter Urban Craft Uprising | Craft FairsIn July, I <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/07/2014-summer-urban-craft-uprising-craft.html">wrote</a> about the summer Urban Craft Uprising craft fair. <a href="http://urbancraftuprising.com/">UCU</a> is held twice a year, the second fair being in early December! Tal and I attended the winter UCU on Saturday. Due to horrible traffic, we didn't have as much time to spend at the fair as usual. I did manage to snap photos of some of my favorite booths and we got a Christmas gift for Tal's dad. :)<br /><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://oddfauna.com/">ODD FAUNA</a> | by Emma SanCartier</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uxqqorIXWG8/VIYl3VzxOdI/AAAAAAAAFz8/1s7bVGXMCEM/s1600/1%2BOdd%2BFauna%2BEmma%2BSanCartier%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uxqqorIXWG8/VIYl3VzxOdI/AAAAAAAAFz8/1s7bVGXMCEM/s1600/1%2BOdd%2BFauna%2BEmma%2BSanCartier%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" /></a></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n-m_K9U13Nk/VIYl8CFmiiI/AAAAAAAAF00/VNqEkA38blU/s1600/2%2BOdd%2BFauna%2BEmma%2BSanCartier%2B%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; 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text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k-TPpt8JuhQ/VIYl3Te-1gI/AAAAAAAAFz0/qdDZiuWPGiw/s1600/11%2BBlind%2BInsect%2BArtwork%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k-TPpt8JuhQ/VIYl3Te-1gI/AAAAAAAAFz0/qdDZiuWPGiw/s1600/11%2BBlind%2BInsect%2BArtwork%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tCh-rgSU6sw/VIYl4JTwRxI/AAAAAAAAF0o/fe5ZtbgXjhw/s1600/12%2BBlind%2B%2BInsect%2BArt%2BPink%2BElephant%2BCarwash%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tCh-rgSU6sw/VIYl4JTwRxI/AAAAAAAAF0o/fe5ZtbgXjhw/s1600/12%2BBlind%2B%2BInsect%2BArt%2BPink%2BElephant%2BCarwash%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.devoutdolls.com/">DEVOUT DOLLS</a> | by Sara Lanzillotta</span></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SrH9fL7UlhY/VIYl4S-STAI/AAAAAAAAF0A/YpPEtw64wf4/s1600/14%2BDevout%2BDolls%2BBooth%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SrH9fL7UlhY/VIYl4S-STAI/AAAAAAAAF0A/YpPEtw64wf4/s1600/14%2BDevout%2BDolls%2BBooth%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" /></a></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X_0l-SgqIB4/VIYl5O3IzzI/AAAAAAAAF0M/5-ghRRUfwjg/s1600/15%2BDevout%2BDolls%2BScarves%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X_0l-SgqIB4/VIYl5O3IzzI/AAAAAAAAF0M/5-ghRRUfwjg/s1600/15%2BDevout%2BDolls%2BScarves%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eLt4kozvXAo/VIYl5a1ukMI/AAAAAAAAF0Q/Vj5VWAXLGWY/s1600/16%2BDevout%2BDolls%2BTwo%2BHeaded%2BUnicorn%2BPlush%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eLt4kozvXAo/VIYl5a1ukMI/AAAAAAAAF0Q/Vj5VWAXLGWY/s1600/16%2BDevout%2BDolls%2BTwo%2BHeaded%2BUnicorn%2BPlush%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uw4eL7enY5c/VIYl6PEQ5zI/AAAAAAAAF0k/_lbWisWXLkI/s1600/17%2BDevout%2BDolls%2BStar%2BWars%2BOrnaments%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uw4eL7enY5c/VIYl6PEQ5zI/AAAAAAAAF0k/_lbWisWXLkI/s1600/17%2BDevout%2BDolls%2BStar%2BWars%2BOrnaments%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.glamgarb.com/">GLAM GARB</a> | by Gunlis</span></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PAsk2gsViAA/VIYl6aRiy7I/AAAAAAAAF0c/T5zceqOd4r8/s1600/18%2BGlam%2BGarb%2BBooth%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PAsk2gsViAA/VIYl6aRiy7I/AAAAAAAAF0c/T5zceqOd4r8/s1600/18%2BGlam%2BGarb%2BBooth%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" /></a></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k5Ogu3uIRC0/VIYl7ceoxKI/AAAAAAAAF0s/AF05TcpNIAQ/s1600/19%2BGlam%2BGarb%2BBooth%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k5Ogu3uIRC0/VIYl7ceoxKI/AAAAAAAAF0s/AF05TcpNIAQ/s1600/19%2BGlam%2BGarb%2BBooth%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" /></a><br /><br />...and here's an awkward selfie of Tal and me at the fair! Did I mentioned I dyed my hair black? O_O First time it has been black in ten years! I'm wearing <a href="http://lebombshop.net/collections/clothing-shoes-accessories-womens-clothing-dresses-1/products/tie-sleeve-pinup-day-dress-black">this dress</a> from Le Bomb Shop and a necklace I made (should be in the <a href="http://www.kelseaecho.etsy.com/">shop</a> soon). Tal's wearing his new <a href="http://www.thinkgeek.com/product/ead0/">Iron Man hoodie</a>, an early Christmas present I gave him (featured in the <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-2-for-your-favorite-nerd.html">nerd gift guide</a>)!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-glU3n9sbDF8/VIYl8UY2NYI/AAAAAAAAF14/Z_65KvUH_6U/s1600/20%2BKelsea%2Band%2BIron%2BMan%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-glU3n9sbDF8/VIYl8UY2NYI/AAAAAAAAF14/Z_65KvUH_6U/s1600/20%2BKelsea%2Band%2BIron%2BMan%2BKels%2BShark%2BUrban%2BCraft%2BUprising%2BUCU%2BSeattle%2BCraft%2BFair%2BWinter%2B2014%2BIndie%2BArtists%2BShows.png" /></a></div>Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-51810807658000235712014-12-08T13:15:00.000-08:002014-12-08T13:15:00.823-08:00"The Sweet Life of Paper Girls" Advent Calendar | Christmas Project<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1vH6kBhBK-Q/VIX2hGA3XcI/AAAAAAAAFxY/IIhCsQm2NwU/s1600/1%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1vH6kBhBK-Q/VIX2hGA3XcI/AAAAAAAAFxY/IIhCsQm2NwU/s1600/1%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" /></a></div><br /><a name='more'></a>When I was growing up, my family had an advent calendar. It was a simple, pretty one made out of felt by my mom's friend. It had a Christmas tree with tiny hooks on it and numbered pockets at the bottom, each containing a little silver bell. Every day, you took the bell out of the pocket and hung it up as an ornament on the tree. We always had fun doing our annual Christmas countdown with the advent calendar.<br /><br />I've always had a strong love of gifts and gift-giving (if that wasn't obvious from the twelve days of&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/search/label/gift%20guides">gift guides</a>). While brainstorming fun Christmas projects, I thought it would be so much fun to make my own advent calendar with daily pockets for tiny gifts!<br /><br />Soo... this should be obvious from my <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/08/blythecon-seattle-2014.html">BlytheCon</a> post, <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-8-for-art-and-designer-toy.html">art collector gift guide</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;other posts, but in case you missed it, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/mabgraves">Mab Graves</a> is one of my top favorite artists. When I saw the <a href="http://smile.amazon.com/Little-Lost-Girls-Paper-Dolls/dp/0486491609/">Little Lost Girls Paper Dolls</a> book on her site, I ordered two: one to keep intact, the other to use for projects.<br /><br />Likewise, I've mentioned my friends Jenny and Aaron, the super sweet and talented duo behind <a href="http://everyday-is-a-holiday.blogspot.com/">Everyday is a Holiday</a>, in the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/10/how-to-make-your-own-coasters-project.html">Sweet Life coaster project</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-4-for-paper-crafter.html">paper crafter gift guide</a>. This isn't the first project I used the Sweet Life papers for... and it's unlikely to be the last, either!<br /><br />Now, tell me what you think: Mab girls x Jenny &amp; Aaron sweets x 24 tiny gifts x Christmas countdown = match made in heaven? I thought so!<br /><br />Trying to explain every step would be insanity as this project took me something like three full days to complete. However, I will list every material I can remember using and include some process photos. I encourage you to <i>please do</i>&nbsp;ask questions if you want to know how I did something as I'd love to share!<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">THE SWEET LIFE OF PAPER GIRLS ADVENT CALENDAR</span></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s-3yUIoPHfk/VIX4bow7kqI/AAAAAAAAFxk/srRSnD1aGtk/s1600/8%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s-3yUIoPHfk/VIX4bow7kqI/AAAAAAAAFxk/srRSnD1aGtk/s1600/8%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Materials List</span></b><br />+ Kaisercraft | <a href="http://store.scrapbook.com/nm-sb2066.html">Advent Calendar Kit</a>, $25.99<br />+ Mab Graves |&nbsp;<a href="http://smile.amazon.com/Little-Lost-Girls-Paper-Dolls/dp/0486491609/">Little Lost Girls Paper Dolls</a>, $8.99<br />+ Everyday is a Holiday x Melissa Frances | Sweet Life 12x12 Paper, <a href="http://store.scrapbook.com/hh-pa415.html">individually</a>:&nbsp;$0.93 <b>or</b>&nbsp;<a href="http://everydayisaholiday.bigcartel.com/product/the-sweet-life-scrapbooking-papers-set-of-6-12x12-double-sided-papers">set of 6</a>: $7<br />+ Everyday is a Holiday x Melissa Frances | <a href="http://store.scrapbook.com/hh-gnja008.html">The Sweet Life 6x6 Paper Pad</a>, $6.99<br />+ Everyday is a Holiday x Melissa Frances | <a href="http://store.scrapbook.com/hh-gnja003.html">The Sweet Life Chipboard Accents</a>, $2.19<br />+ DCWV | <a href="http://www.michaels.com/dcwv-shimmer-stack/10172642.html">Shimmer Stack</a>, $19.99 <i>(pink shimmer paper, which I scallop-cut)</i><br />+ Liquitex | White Gesso, $5.07+ (<a href="http://www.michaels.com/liquitex-gesso-white/M10011026.html">Michaels</a>, <a href="http://www.dickblick.com/products/liquitex-acrylic-gessos/">Blick</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Liquitex-Professional-White-Surface-Medium/dp/B000KNJF6W">Amazon</a>)<br />+ Liquitex | <a href="http://www.dickblick.com/products/liquitex-basics-acrylic-colors/">Basics Acrylic Paint in Mars Black</a>, $4.23+<br />+ Tim Holtz | Distress Glitter in Pumice Stone, $5.49+ (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ranger-Distress-Glitter-1-Ounce-Pumice/dp/B00EBJ6WDU">Scrapbook</a>, <a href="http://smile.amazon.com/Ranger-Distress-Glitter-1-Ounce-Pumice/dp/B00EBJ6WDU">Amazon</a>)<br />+ Eclectic | E6000, $4.99+ (<a href="http://www.michaels.com/e6000-craft-adhesive/10192536.html">Michaels</a>, <a href="http://smile.amazon.com/Eclectic-E6000-Adhesive-10-pack/dp/B007TBYEXM">Amazon</a>)<br />+ X-Acto | <a href="http://smile.amazon.com/X-Acto-Light-Snap-Off-Blade-Utility/dp/B000BRFDTU">Light Duty Snap-Off Blade</a>, $6.70<br />+ Mod Podge | <a href="http://smile.amazon.com/Podge-CS11302-Original-16-Ounce-Finish/dp/B001IKES5O">Original</a>, $6.97<br />+ Loew Cornell | <a href="http://smile.amazon.com/Cornell-842-25-Piece-Brush-1-Inch/dp/B000W5IACS">1" Foam Brushes - Set of 25</a>, $6.49+<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QRLQIfCMFfk/VIX9u2aToeI/AAAAAAAAFx0/Go2ZuRPTdKw/s1600/2%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QRLQIfCMFfk/VIX9u2aToeI/AAAAAAAAFx0/Go2ZuRPTdKw/s1600/2%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Kaisercraft advent calendar kit: lots of assembly required.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4AtFjJdvQSc/VIX9yMC1oXI/AAAAAAAAFx8/pRVJatepfmQ/s1600/3%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4AtFjJdvQSc/VIX9yMC1oXI/AAAAAAAAFx8/pRVJatepfmQ/s1600/3%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>My fave way to use lids from mason jars: drying racks for project pieces!</i>&nbsp;</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a5v5hs08kiw/VIX9yUUIksI/AAAAAAAAFyA/dwmWCI4GSjU/s1600/4%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a5v5hs08kiw/VIX9yUUIksI/AAAAAAAAFyA/dwmWCI4GSjU/s1600/4%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Deciding which outfit + chipboard sweets to use!&nbsp;</i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JbkzBu63VF0/VIX9ySv28CI/AAAAAAAAFyY/BS4Abpidgys/s1600/5%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JbkzBu63VF0/VIX9ySv28CI/AAAAAAAAFyY/BS4Abpidgys/s1600/5%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>&nbsp;Don't worry: I cut out the cake part of the Sweet Life 12x12 paper to use for a future project!</i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QtVJJ_IwhhE/VIX9y_k1mII/AAAAAAAAFyE/zPJLnpesdR8/s1600/6%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QtVJJ_IwhhE/VIX9y_k1mII/AAAAAAAAFyE/zPJLnpesdR8/s1600/6%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I used baker's twine to keep the drawers secure while the E6000 dried.&nbsp;</i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2qdyfpCJpIs/VIX9zdNciqI/AAAAAAAAFyM/oE5WBhsDDNU/s1600/7%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2qdyfpCJpIs/VIX9zdNciqI/AAAAAAAAFyM/oE5WBhsDDNU/s1600/7%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MvH_CksXTdU/VIX_HbaPmTI/AAAAAAAAFyo/Nib6EpdpoMk/s1600/9%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MvH_CksXTdU/VIX_HbaPmTI/AAAAAAAAFyo/Nib6EpdpoMk/s1600/9%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" /></a></div><br />I convinced Tal to fill up advent calendars for each other. Originally, I planned to do another calendar more suited to his tastes, for me to fill up with goodies for him. However, this project took <i><b>forever </b></i>and I ran out of time, so I made him a simple calendar for this year (and the fancy one is on hold for next year).<br /><br />Here are the goodies I've found in my calendar so far! Includes lovelies from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/imyourpresent">I'm Your Present</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/mabgraves">Mab Graves</a>, <a href="http://www.shanalogic.com/">Shana Logic</a>, &amp; <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/AnitasGatos">Anitas Gatos</a>. :)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9ME2HdDVwsE/VIYBni6Er6I/AAAAAAAAFy0/-PWfi0DeiL8/s1600/10%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9ME2HdDVwsE/VIYBni6Er6I/AAAAAAAAFy0/-PWfi0DeiL8/s1600/10%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bmab%2Bgraves%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Blife%2Beveryday%2Bis%2Ba%2Bholiday%2Bpaper%2Bdolls%2Blost%2Blittle%2Bgirls%2Badvent%2Bcalendar%2Bchristmas%2Bproject%2Bprojects%2BDIY%2Bblue-haired%2Bgirl%2Bvampoodle%2Bcake.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><i><b><u>Project Post Guidelines</u></b>: Want to share a project you saw on Kels Shark?&nbsp;<b>Please read my&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/p/faq_12.html"><b>FAQ page</b></a>&nbsp;first!</b>&nbsp;I always appreciate social media links shares and I love seeing how your version of a project you saw here turned out (<a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/p/contact_17.html">send</a>&nbsp;a picture/link my way!). Project posts take a long time to compile, so please respect the time and energy put into these posts when sharing them on your own blog. Thank you!</i><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Want to see more projects? Check out my&nbsp;<b><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/p/projects.html">projects page</a></b>!</i></span>Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-44307294470117022282014-12-04T08:30:00.000-08:002015-01-07T11:28:21.663-08:00Gift Guides 12 | For the Chef/Baker<b><i>Previous gift guides shared:</i></b><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-1-for-makeupbeauty-fanatic.html">1:&nbsp;For the Makeup/Beauty Fanatic</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-2-for-your-favorite-nerd.html">2: For Your Favorite Nerd</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-3-for-traveler.html">3: For the Traveler</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-4-for-paper-crafter.html">4: For the Paper Crafter</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-5-for-kawaii-lover.html">5:&nbsp;For the Kawaii Lover</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-6-for-sweet-tooth.html">6: For the Sweet Tooth</a>&nbsp;(more chef/baker gifts in this guide)</i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-7-for-nature-lover.html">7: For the Nature Lover</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-8-for-art-and-designer-toy.html">8: For the Art and Designer Toy Collector</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/12/gift-guides-9-for-nail-enthusiast.html">9: For the Nail Enthusiast</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/12/gift-guides-10-for-jewelry-lover.html">10: For the Jewelry Lover</a></i><br /><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/12/gift-guides-11-for-animal-lover.html"><i>11:&nbsp;For the Animal Lover</i></a><br /><i>Browse all gift guides&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/search/label/gift%20guides">here</a>.</i><br /><div><br />Today's is the last of the gift guides! Thanks for all of your comments these past few days. :) I've had a lot of fun putting these together and plan to compile more in the future.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A9hiGbuTdow/VH7NKxLIprI/AAAAAAAAFxI/Y2kvj5KXZP8/s1600/Kels%2BShark%2Bgift%2Bguide%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Bchef%2Bgifts%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Bbaker%2Bgift%2Bideas%2Bchristmas%2B2014%2Bshop%2Bindie%2Bkitchen%2Bdining%2Bcookbooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A9hiGbuTdow/VH7NKxLIprI/AAAAAAAAFxI/Y2kvj5KXZP8/s1600/Kels%2BShark%2Bgift%2Bguide%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Bchef%2Bgifts%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Bbaker%2Bgift%2Bideas%2Bchristmas%2B2014%2Bshop%2Bindie%2Bkitchen%2Bdining%2Bcookbooks.jpg" /></a></div><a name='more'></a><b>1: The Tomkat Studio |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://shop.thetomkatstudio.com/collections/cake-cupcake-stands/products/10-5-pedestal-cake-stand-blue-decor-bon-bon"><b>10.5" Pedestal Cake Stand</b></a><b>, $85</b><br />Tomkat has quite a <a href="http://shop.thetomkatstudio.com/collections/cake-cupcake-stands">selection</a> of beautiful cake stands!<br /><br /><b>2: Paper Mart |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.papermart.com/Lace-Cut-Paper-Cupcake-Wrappers/id=50704#50704"><b>Lace Cut Paper Cupcake Wrappers</b></a><b>, $14 for 50</b><br />This is one of my go-to packaging stores. Bakers will love these beautiful paper cupcake wrappers!<br /><br /><b>3: Elysium Woodworks |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/164800031"><b>Solar System Diagram Cutting Board</b></a><b>, $45+</b><br />How incredible are the cutting boards at Elysium? I'm in love!<br /><br /><b>4: Once Upon a Poodle |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/186006306"><b>"Tea Party" Apron</b></a><b>, $50.95+</b><br /><div>Kristina and Louise make the super cute aprons at Once Upon a Poodle. This Alice in Wonderland design is one of my faves. :)</div><div><br /></div><b>5: Anthropologie |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/31261738.jsp"><b>Whale-Tail Measuring Cups</b></a><b>, $32</b><br />I got these measuring cups for my birthday and&nbsp;<i>love</i>&nbsp;them! Bonus: they're dishwasher and microwave safe as well.<br /><br /><b>6: Valek |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/180814110"><b>Personalized Rolling Pin</b></a><b>, $44</b><br />I bought one of these for one of my best friend's birthdays this year. It's pretty cool - you can pick custom pattern and text. So cute! Great for anyone who likes to bake (esp. if they often give baked goods away).<br /><br /><b>7: The Container Store | </b><a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop/kitchen/foodStorage/pitchers?productId=10029940"><b>Giara Water Bottle</b></a><b>, $8.99 each</b><br />These pretty bottles are perfect for storing homemade flavored oils or vinegars, among other things.<br /><br /><b>8: Lindsay Landis | </b><a href="http://www.loveandoliveoil.com/"><b>The Cookie Dough Lover's Cookbook</b></a><b>, $18.95 retail</b><br />I own a copy of <a href="http://www.loveandoliveoil.com/">Lindsay</a>'s cookbook (though I'm so lazy I haven't tried any recipes yet). I can tell you there are some pretty amazing-looking recipes in it. Definitely good for anyone whose fondest memories include sneaking raw cookie dough.<br /><br /><b>9: Williams-Sonoma | </b><a href="http://www.williams-sonoma.com/products/le-creuset-stoneware-ramekin/"><b>Le Creuset Stoneware Ramekin</b></a><b>, $13 each</b><br />Pretty much anything Le Creuset is going to be a win for chefs and bakers. These pretty ramekins come in several different colors. A set of these would make a great gift for winter, when warm dishes and desserts from the oven sound especially tasty.<br /><br /><b>10: Clotilde Dusoulier |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/30820930.jsp"><b>The French Market Cookbook</b></a><b>, $22.50</b><br />I received this vegetarian cookbook for my birthday this year and love it! I especially appreciate the way&nbsp;<a href="http://chocolateandzucchini.com/">Clotilde</a>&nbsp;has&nbsp;organized it (by season) and the vegetable chart, which tells you how long each vegetable generally&nbsp;lasts before spoiling. Good for someone who likes to prepare fancier meals.<br /><br /><b>11: Erin Gleeson |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://smile.amazon.com/Forest-Feast-Simple-Vegetarian-Recipes/dp/1617690813/"><b>The Forest Feast</b></a><b>, $35 retail</b><br />This is another vegetarian cookbook I received for my birthday. <a href="http://www.eringleeson.com/">Erin</a>'s cookbook&nbsp;is awesome because every&nbsp;single dish is super simple! I think most of the dishes have under five ingredients and the dishes do not shy away from calling for pre-made ingredients like pie crust. It's great for anyone who likes to cook simple, practical meals without having to feel guilty for not making everything from scratch. I can also tell you that even though there are so few ingredients required, there are definitely a lot of brilliant ingredient combinations that I hadn't thought of previously.<br /><div><br /></div><b>12: Hatchery |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://hatchery.co/gift/"><b>3-Month Tasting Box Subscription</b></a><b>, $75</b><br />Every month, the Hatchery's chefs select a variety of artisan agreements and ship them to subscription recipients, along with recipe suggestions. Great for anyone who likes cooking with new, fancy ingredients! Also available in 6 &amp; 12-month subscriptions.Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-83736248402445563472014-12-03T08:30:00.000-08:002015-01-07T11:27:55.743-08:00Gift Guides 11 | For the Animal Lover<b><i>Previous gift guides shared:</i></b><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-1-for-makeupbeauty-fanatic.html">1:&nbsp;For the Makeup/Beauty Fanatic</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-2-for-your-favorite-nerd.html">2: For Your Favorite Nerd</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-3-for-traveler.html">3: For the Traveler</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-4-for-paper-crafter.html">4: For the Paper Crafter</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-5-for-kawaii-lover.html">5:&nbsp;For the Kawaii Lover</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-6-for-sweet-tooth.html">6: For the Sweet Tooth</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-7-for-nature-lover.html">7: For the Nature Lover</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-8-for-art-and-designer-toy.html">8: For the Art and Designer Toy Collector</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/12/gift-guides-9-for-nail-enthusiast.html">9: For the Nail Enthusiast</a></i><br /><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/12/gift-guides-10-for-jewelry-lover.html"><i>10: For the Jewelry Lover</i></a><br /><i>Browse all gift guides&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/search/label/gift%20guides">here</a>.</i><br /><br />For this guide, I included quite a few items that are sold directly by or support various animal charities. Your animal-loving friends will appreciate that their gift went to help animals and you still get to give them a gift in the process. Win win!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HbBWfhtotbA/VH63i9lkk6I/AAAAAAAAFw4/hUWWDoYzkNU/s1600/Kels%2BShark%2BGifts%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Banimal%2Blover%2Bgift%2Bguide%2Bpet%2Bowner%2Bgift%2Bideas%2Bchristmas%2B2014%2Banimals%2Bplushies%2Bcharitable%2Bgifts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HbBWfhtotbA/VH63i9lkk6I/AAAAAAAAFw4/hUWWDoYzkNU/s1600/Kels%2BShark%2BGifts%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Banimal%2Blover%2Bgift%2Bguide%2Bpet%2Bowner%2Bgift%2Bideas%2Bchristmas%2B2014%2Banimals%2Bplushies%2Bcharitable%2Bgifts.jpg" /></a></div><a name='more'></a><b>1: Defenders of Wildlife |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://secure.defenders.org/site/SPageServer?pagename=wagc_homepage#/gifts"><b>Wolf Headband</b></a><b>, $20</b><br /><a href="http://www.defenders.org/mission-and-vision">Defenders</a>&nbsp;focuses on wildlife and habitat conservation and the safeguarding of biodiversity. Help them fulfill their mission&nbsp;<i>and</i>&nbsp;help your recipient fulfill their dream of being a wolf. That's on everyone's bucket list... right? ;)<br /><br /><b>2: Chasing Shadows Photos |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/208278659"><b>"Sleeping King" White Lion Photography Print</b></a><b>, $30+</b><br />Animal lovers' hearts will melt when they see this sweet, sleeping lion, captured so beautifully in this photograph by Carrie.<br /><br /><b>3: Bark Box |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.barkbox.com/gift/size"><b>Gift Subscription</b></a><b>, $29+</b><br />This one is for your dog loving friends! Every month, your recipient receives a box of at least four dog products and presents, based on the size of their dog (examples&nbsp;<a href="http://puppyfeed.thebarkpost.com/buzz">here</a>). Both dog and owner will love you. :) Sweet bonus: 10% of profits are&nbsp;<a href="https://barkbox.com/a-good-cause">donated</a>&nbsp;to dogs in need!<br /><div><br /></div><b>4: Squishable |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.squishable.com/pc/squish_arctic_fox_15/Big_Animals/Squishable+Arctic+Fox"><b>15" Arctic Fox</b></a><b>, $39</b><br />Sooo squishables are my current biggest obsession. Tons of animals who have been squishified and are ready to be adopted! My favorites are the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.squishable.com/c/Big_Animals/">15" squishables</a>, but the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.squishable.com/c/Squishable_Mini/">7" mini squishables</a>&nbsp;also make good gifts for anyone who lives in a smaller place or if you're bringing your gifts to travel for the holidays.<br /><b><br /></b><b>5: Jessica Louise |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/212754337"><b>Skull Tie Dog Collar</b></a><b>, $22</b><br />I first discovered&nbsp;<a href="http://jessicalouise.com/">Jessica</a>'s shop in college and it was my first inspiration toward eventually starting my own business. I'll write out my full story on here sometime. But, basically, Jessica makes the coolest clothing. I own quite a few pieces. And she has a few dog collars available in her Etsy shop for furry friends!<br /><br /><b>6: The Elephant Sanctuary | </b><a href="http://shop.elephants.com/product/C229F52/necklaceearrings.php"><b>Necklace &amp; Earring Set</b></a><b>, $30</b><br />This would be perfect for anyone in your life who (like one of my best friends) is elephant-obsessed! <a href="http://shop.elephants.com/mission.php">The Elephant Santuary</a> is a haven for endangered African and Asian elephants.<br /><br /><b>7: Glitter Bomb UK |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/122423206"><b>Acrylic Little Bunny Necklace</b></a><b>, $24</b><br />This little bunny will win the heart of any bunny lover!<br /><div><br /></div><b>8: Sea Shepherd | </b><a href="http://shopusd.seashepherd.org/store/p/1917-Sea-Shepherd-Jolly-Roger-short-sleeve-t-shirt-100-Organic-Cotton.aspx"><b>Jolly Roger Short Sleeve T-Shirt</b></a><b>, $30</b><br /><a href="http://www.seashepherd.org/who-we-are/">SSCS</a> is an international, non-profit, marine wildlife conservation organization. They have a whole <a href="http://shopusd.seashepherd.org/">store</a> of goodies that would make great gifts for the marine animal lover in your life. I'm loving the badass skull logo too!<br /><br /><b>9: Locketship | </b><a href="http://www.locketship.com/store/p209/Snow_Princess_Kitty_Necklace.html"><b>Snow Princess Kitty Necklace</b></a><b>, $22 - $25</b><br />I have way more Locketship than I'd care to admit (see pieces worn in outfits <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/10/outfit-kittens-and-ice-cream.html">here</a> and <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/07/outfit-bunny-bunny-birthday.html">here</a>). Maria has some super cute, whimsical cat and dog cameo jewelry available in her shop. For a cute, $5 stocking stuffer, check out her <a href="http://www.locketship.com/store/p266/Crazy_Cat_Lady_Mirror.html">crazy cat lady 3" mirror</a>.<br /><br /><b>10: World Wildlife Fund |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://gifts.worldwildlife.org/gift-center/gifts/Species-Adoptions/Tiger.aspx"><b>Adopt a Tiger Kit</b></a><b>, $55</b><br />The funds for these kits go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.worldwildlife.org/about">WWF</a>, who work to support conservation efforts and to be the voice of the animals.&nbsp;I think the tigers are extra cute, but WWF has a&nbsp;<a href="http://gifts.worldwildlife.org/gift-center/gifts/Species-Adoptions.aspx">huge range</a>&nbsp;of other species adoption kits available also. Choose the recipient's favorite animal and get them one of these! Includes a plush version of the adopted animal, adoption certificate, 5" x 7" species photo, fact card, personal acknowledgement letter, and free priority shipping. Other kits are available in prices ranging from $25 - $250. If you're donating on behalf of a loved one who lives far away, you can use the&nbsp;<a href="http://gifts.worldwildlife.org/gift-center/gifts/Gift-Adoption-Cards.aspx">gift adoption card</a>&nbsp;to e-mail the recipient a code they can redeem for any adoption kit!<br /><br /><b>11: ASPCA |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.aspcaonlinestore.com/product/aspca-limited-edition-playing-cards"><b>Limited Edition Playing Cards</b></a><b>, $18.99</b><br />The&nbsp;<a href="http://www.aspca.org/about-us/about-the-aspca">American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals</a>&nbsp;works to care for pet parents and pets, assist at-risk animals, and serve victims of animal cruelty. This card deck features photos of ASPCA Onyx and Breezy Shefts Adoption Center animals, with a card back design by Isaac Mizrahi.<br /><div><br /></div><b>12: So Little Time Co | </b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/114992197"><b>Whale Brooch</b></a><b>, $21</b><br />I love this little proud whale! So Little Time Co pieces are made from laser-cut wood, then hand-painted.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Coming up tomorrow: Gift Guide for the Chef/Baker</span>Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-75341274431710898852014-12-02T08:30:00.000-08:002015-01-07T11:27:29.243-08:00Gift Guides 10 | For the Jewelry Lover<b><i>Previous gift guides shared:</i></b><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-1-for-makeupbeauty-fanatic.html">1:&nbsp;For the Makeup/Beauty Fanatic</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-2-for-your-favorite-nerd.html">2: For Your Favorite Nerd</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-3-for-traveler.html">3: For the Traveler</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-4-for-paper-crafter.html">4: For the Paper Crafter</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-5-for-kawaii-lover.html">5:&nbsp;For the Kawaii Lover</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-6-for-sweet-tooth.html">6: For the Sweet Tooth</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-7-for-nature-lover.html">7: For the Nature Lover</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-8-for-art-and-designer-toy.html">8: For the Art and Designer Toy Collector</a></i><br /><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/12/gift-guides-9-for-nail-enthusiast.html"><i>9: For the Nail Enthusiast</i></a><br /><i>Browse all gift guides&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/search/label/gift%20guides">here</a>.</i><br /><div><i><br /></i></div>As you probably figure, given that I am a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/KelseaEcho">jewelry artist</a>, I love jewelry!&nbsp;It makes for an easy and thoughtful holiday gift. This one is really more like two gift guides. I couldn't narrow it down any more. As someone who loves both kawaii/cute jewelry (like the style I make) and also beautiful/pretty jewelry (like the gemstone jewelry I used to make), my finds vary in style as well. I decided to split them into "fun" and "serious" jewelry... I guess that's how I think of it. :)<br /><br />Oh, and this particular guide includes a lot of artists from different countries (not just the U.S.), so there are more local options for some of my non-U.S. readers as well!<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">FUN JEWELRY</span></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9vhbDlMH4c0/VH2e5KboMFI/AAAAAAAAFwg/DuD5omCZ35s/s1600/1%2BKels%2BShark%2BGift%2BGuide%2BFor%2Bthe%2BJewelry%2BLover%2BWomen%2BGirls%2BGift%2BIdeas%2BGifts%2BKawaii%2BCute%2BAcrylic%2BColorful%2BTeen%2BJewelry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9vhbDlMH4c0/VH2e5KboMFI/AAAAAAAAFwg/DuD5omCZ35s/s1600/1%2BKels%2BShark%2BGift%2BGuide%2BFor%2Bthe%2BJewelry%2BLover%2BWomen%2BGirls%2BGift%2BIdeas%2BGifts%2BKawaii%2BCute%2BAcrylic%2BColorful%2BTeen%2BJewelry.jpg" /></a></div><a name='more'></a><b>1: Sugar and Vice Designs |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/100024096"><b>Gemstone Necklace</b></a><b>, $38</b><br />You'll find in this gift guide that I'm obsessed with gems. These laser-cut mirror acrylic gems are so cool - a unique mix of gemstones and kawaii! Sugar and Vice has so many pretty designs... it was hard to pick just one to feature. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/sugarandvicedesigns">Check them out</a> for more cute, covetable pieces.<br /><br /><b>2: I Love Crafty |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/195373206"><b>Original Glazed Sprinkles Bite Necklace</b></a><b>, $43</b><br />Laura of ILC makes the cutest jewelry. In addition to the entire <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/ILoveCrafty?section_id=15702242">donut line</a>, I am in love Laura's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/ILoveCrafty?section_id=14772571">gift box</a>&nbsp;section, full of cute jewelry sets that would make perfect holiday gifts!<br /><div><br /></div><div><b>3: Love Your Bling |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/186311956"><b>Alice in Wonderland Teacup Ring</b></a><b>, $19</b><br />Ruthie's entire&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/LoveYourBling?section_id=5708743">teacup jewelry section</a>&nbsp;is adorable! There are matching necklaces available as well.<br /><br /><b>4: The Gorgonist |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/185486444"><b>Kracken Attack! Ship in a Bottle Necklace</b></a><b>, $20</b><br />Though I included a Gorgonist piece in <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-8-for-art-and-designer-toy.html">last week's gift guide</a>, I couldn't resist including another today. How cute are their ship in a bottle necklaces?<br /><br /><b>5: I'm Your Present |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/159695757"><b>Mermaid Acrylic Earrings</b></a><b>, $14</b><br />I <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/08/blythecon-seattle-2014.html">wore</a> a panda dress by Kelly of I'm Your Present to BlytheCon earlier in the year. In addition to original clothing designs, Kelly makes super cute jewelry pieces like these mermaid earrings, in a very affordable price range.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>6: Unicorn Crafts |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://unicorncraftsart.com/portfolio/unicorn-hot-ait-balloon-necklace/"><b>Unicorn Hot Air Balloon Necklace</b></a><b>, $9</b><br />I was so excited <a href="http://instagram.com/p/q2eSmtkirw">when I won</a> Faheema's birthday giveaway earlier this year! I actually met Faheema in person a few years ago at Unique LA. She's super sweet <i>and</i>&nbsp;makes the cutest goodies. Also available at Faheema's Etsy shop&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/189421101">here</a>.<br /><br /><b>7: Kelsea Echo |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/212776832"><b>Sparkle Skull and Bones Cameo Necklace</b></a><b>, $35</b><br />This is one of the three sparkle skull and bones cameo necklaces I added to my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/KelseaEcho">shop</a> last week and the first horizontal cameo design released. If you know anyone who's a bit of a sucker for cute skulls (like me), they'll like the sparkle skull collection!<br /><br /><b>8: Creep Heart |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.creepheart.com.au/product/skully-tea-pot-ear-studs"><b>Skully Tea &amp; Pot Ear Studs</b></a><b>, $20</b><br />Ella designs really pretty, covetable tattoo-style jewelry for her shop, Creep Heart!<br /><br /><b>9: The Twenty Fingers |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/150545132"><b>Pink &amp; Blue Feather Earrings</b></a><b>, $13</b></div><div>The color scheme of these pretty, hand-painted earrings is pastel perfect!</div><br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">"SERIOUS" JEWELRY</span></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-assdAp8S6nU/VH2e8WyMkwI/AAAAAAAAFwo/-OXgbBpoqX4/s1600/2%2BKels%2BShark%2BGift%2BGuide%2BFor%2Bthe%2BJewelry%2BLover%2BWomen%2BGirls%2BGift%2BIdeas%2BGifts%2BSterling%2BSilver%2BHoneycomb%2BFancy%2BStatement%2BGemstone%2BGem%2BWire%2BWrapped%2BNecklace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-assdAp8S6nU/VH2e8WyMkwI/AAAAAAAAFwo/-OXgbBpoqX4/s1600/2%2BKels%2BShark%2BGift%2BGuide%2BFor%2Bthe%2BJewelry%2BLover%2BWomen%2BGirls%2BGift%2BIdeas%2BGifts%2BSterling%2BSilver%2BHoneycomb%2BFancy%2BStatement%2BGemstone%2BGem%2BWire%2BWrapped%2BNecklace.jpg" /></a></div><b>10: Souls Fire Designs | </b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/158235026"><b>Tahitian Sunrise Bracelet</b></a><b>, $42</b><br />In addition to being a talented jewelry-maker, Jennifer is super sweet! I'm in love with the color scheme of this gorgeous bracelet - it reminds me of sherbert. :)<br /><br /><b>11: Silver Blueberry |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/97060093"><b>Honeycomb Ring</b></a><b>, $68</b><br />Pretty and unique - the only downside is that your gift recipient will crave honey every time they wear this piece. ;)<br /><div><br /></div><div><b>12: Art of the Heart |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/178938072"><b>Golden State Bracelet</b></a><b>, $15</b></div><a href="http://artoftheheartblog.blogspot.com/">Amy</a>, an awesome fellow blogger, also makes these gorgeous state pride bracelets. These would make an especially thoughtful gift for a college student or someone else living away from their hometown.<br /><br /><b>13: Epuu | </b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/194594231"><b>Lasata Burgundy Lace Necklace</b></a><b>, $40</b><br />Ebru makes a range of beautiful lace jewelry like this one. Definitely a statement piece and a conversation starter, the red lace necklaces would be perfect for holiday gifts.<br /><br /><b>14: Glowfly |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/196263064"><b>Vanitas Skull and Vase Necklace</b></a><b>, $145</b><br />I've been following Jennifer's shop since I discovered it several years ago. I'm always amazed by the intricacy of her designs. There are a lot of wire-wrapping jewelry artists out there, but I've never seen anything quite like Jennifer's style.<br /><br /><b>15: Emilie Gray Jewels |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/213249224"><b>The Cranberry Amulet Necklace</b></a><b>, $225</b><br />Speaking of talented wire wrappers, Emilie's jewelry will make your jaw drop. I've basically stalked her shop and Facebook page for several years now... hehe. Emilie makes the prettiest heirloom pieces. This cranberry necklace would make a gorgeous winter gift for someone super special!<br /><br /><b>16: Sanktoleono Jewelry | </b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/204492855"><b>Large Semiprecious Stones Necklace</b></a><b>, $69+</b><br />I have an undeniable attraction to the look of raw gemstones like these. It's hard to pick, but I think the apatite (blue) is my fave! Take 15% off everything with "sanktoleonon15" through 12/28.<br /><br /><b>17: Jet Flair | </b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/49807378"><b>4mm Swiss Blue Topaz Stud Earrings</b></a><b>, $36+</b><br />Jessi is super serious about the quality of her stud earrings - I have a few of them in my own collection and they're gorgeous! Anyone with pierced ears knows that there's nothing quite like a classic stud earring for every day wear. Personally, I think swiss blue topaz is one of the prettiest gem colors and it's perfect for snowy winter.<br /><br /><b>18: Lux Divine | </b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/160443381"><b>Chunky Shark Tooth Ring</b></a><b>, $80</b><br />How cool is this shark tooth ring, which has been electroformed, covering it in a layer of fine silver? Holy amazing!<br /><br /><b><span style="color: red;">BONUS:</span> Francesca |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.francesca.com.au/be-hers-freedom-ring/"><b>Be Hers Freedom Ring</b></a><b>, $32</b><br />I meant to include this ring in the gift guide, but I forgot initially and it's 4am, so I'm too tired to go back and change it. Hence, bonus pick! I actually bought one of these as a Christmas gift for one of my best friends. 100% of the profits from the sales of this ring go to <a href="http://www.behers.org.au/">Be Hers</a>, an organization created to help victims of sex trafficking.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Coming up tomorrow: Gift Guide for the Animal Lover</span>Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-19420369033740334652014-12-01T08:30:00.000-08:002014-12-02T04:08:42.136-08:00Gift Guides 9 | For the Nail EnthusiastAnd, we're back! :) I hope my U.S. readers (and anyone else who celebrates) had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend!<br /><b><i><br /></i></b><b><i>Previous gift guides shared:</i></b><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-1-for-makeupbeauty-fanatic.html">1:&nbsp;For the Makeup/Beauty Fanatic</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-2-for-your-favorite-nerd.html">2: For Your Favorite Nerd</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-3-for-traveler.html">3: For the Traveler</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-4-for-paper-crafter.html">4: For the Paper Crafter</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-5-for-kawaii-lover.html">5:&nbsp;For the Kawaii Lover</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-6-for-sweet-tooth.html">6: For the Sweet Tooth</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-7-for-nature-lover.html">7: For the Nature Lover</a></i><br /><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-8-for-art-and-designer-toy.html"><i>8: For the Art and Designer Toy Collector</i></a><br /><i>Browse all gift guides&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/search/label/gift%20guides">here</a>.</i><br /><br />This gift guide was difficult to put together... mostly because I want everything on it. Heh. Nail polish is a fun and often inexpensive gift. They also make great stocking stuffers!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gIP1WoBURzc/VHVx4FA9OvI/AAAAAAAAFwI/23JT-4TgWDA/s1600/Gift%2BGuide%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Bnail%2Benthusiast%2BKels%2BShark%2Bnail%2Bpolish%2Bopi%2Bzoya%2Bjulep%2Bindie%2Bbrands%2Bnails%2Bmanicure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gIP1WoBURzc/VHVx4FA9OvI/AAAAAAAAFwI/23JT-4TgWDA/s1600/Gift%2BGuide%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Bnail%2Benthusiast%2BKels%2BShark%2Bnail%2Bpolish%2Bopi%2Bzoya%2Bjulep%2Bindie%2Bbrands%2Bnails%2Bmanicure.jpg" /></a></div><b></b><br /><a name='more'></a><b>1: Spectrum |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.target.com/p/scroll-spice-rack-wall-mount-boxed/-/A-15414512"><b>Scroll Wall Mount Spice Rack</b></a><b>, $17.99</b><br />Many spice racks happen to be the perfect size for nail polish storage as well.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.target.com/p/three-tier-countertop-spice-racks/-/A-14223771">Here's</a>&nbsp;another pretty rack (this one countertop rather than wall-mounted) that would work nicely.<br /><div><br /></div><b>2: Zoya | </b><a href="http://www.zoya.com/content/item/Zoya/Zoya-Mini-Metallic-Trio-Holiday-2014.html"><b>Mini Metallic Trio</b></a><b>, $12</b><br />I haven't tried Zoya yet, but I hear good things about the brand. This collection's pretty metallics and classic black give it a classy holiday feel.<br /><br /><b>3: O.P.I. | </b><a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod10991267"><b>Little Northies 4-Pack</b></a><b>, $13.95</b><br />This collection features miniature bottles of O.P.I., which is my fave polish brand. This particular group is pretty and wintry: very appropriate as a holiday gift!<br /><br /><b>4: Janes Tiny Things |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/182605797"><b>64 Illustrated Gem Nail Art Decals</b></a><b>, $9</b><br />These adorable, illustrated nail decals are so cool. I want a pack!<br /><br /><b>5:&nbsp;</b><a href="http://smile.amazon.com/Bottle-Nail-Polish-Wall-Display/dp/B002WVBEH8"><b>96-Bottle Nail Polish Wall Rack Display</b></a><b>, $38.99 </b><i>(photo by <a href="http://www.thedaintysquid.com/2012/08/nail-polish-collection.html">The Dainty Squid</a>)</i><br />Anyone with a large polish collection and some free wall space would appreciate this simple, professional-looking display rack.<br /><br /><b>6: Daily Charme |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/157560580"><b>120 Neon Rainbow Nail Art Studs</b></a><b>, $3.50</b><br />These rainbow studs are so cute I'm tempted to order a pack for myself!<br /><div><br /></div><b>7: Peacekeeper | </b><a href="http://iamapeacekeeper.com/nail-polishes/paint-me-tender"><b>Paint Me Tender</b></a><b>, $8</b><br />This opaque white nail polish is not just pretty - <a href="http://iamapeacekeeper.com/about-peacekeeper/">100%</a> of after-tax, distributable profits go to fund women's health advocacy and urgent human rights issues.<br /><br /><b>8: Nail Mail | </b><a href="http://nail-mail.co.uk/product/mermaid-scale/"><b>Mermaid Scale Nail Stencils</b></a><b>, £3.95+</b><br />These mermaid scale designs are sooo cute! Since they're stencils, they can be used with any nail polish color. You can also order these from their <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/NailStencils">Etsy shop</a>.<br /><br /><b>9: Baroness X |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.baronessx.com/shop/nail-polish/kawaii-or-die-colorful-star-and-dot-glitter-topper"><b>"Kawaii or Die" Glitter Topper</b></a><b>, $4+</b><br />This is like a kawaii-lover's dreams bottled up into a glitter polish. Yes, please!<br /><br /><b>10: </b><a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/1100-French-Manicure-10-Designs-Nail-Tip-Guides-Stickers-Adhesives-Stencils-/261648234171"><b>1100 Manicure Stencils</b></a><b>, £3.99</b>&nbsp;<i>(photo by&nbsp;<a href="http://www.thedaintysquid.com/2013/09/nail-sticker-faq-tips.html">The Dainty Squid</a>)</i><br />If you couldn't tell already, I defer to Kaylah as the nail polish expert. Kaylah uses these nail stickers regularly in her nail polish&nbsp;<a href="http://www.thedaintysquid.com/search/label/nails">posts</a>&nbsp;and I finally decided to check them out while researching this gift guide. I was pleasantly surprised to find that they're quite inexpensive. This listing comes with 10 sheets of 110 stickers each. You'll probably see the result on here at some point, since I just ordered myself a pack!<br /><div><br /></div><b>11: O.P.I. |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?skuId=6052436&amp;productId=xlsImpprod5180201"><b>I'm Really Not a Waitress</b></a><b>, $9.50</b>&nbsp;<i>(photo by&nbsp;<a href="http://www.thepolishaholic.com/2013/08/OPI-Im-Not-Really-A-Waitress-iPhone-Case.html">The Polish Aholic</a>)</i><br />This is my absolute favorite red nail polish - the only polish I've ever bought a second bottle of. It's a gorgeous, deep red with subtle shimmer. The Ulta photo honestly doesn't do it justice (hence why I used a different, more accurate photo).<br /><br /><b>12: Julep |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.julep.com/shop/gift/fair-isle-sweater.html"><b>"Fair Isle Sweater" - Set of 3</b></a><b>, $14.99</b><br />Bonus: if they like their set, they can get themselves a Julep subscription. :)<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Coming up tomorrow: Gift Guide for the Jewelry Lover</span>Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-43581493051121787812014-11-26T08:30:00.000-08:002014-12-06T22:28:54.992-08:00Gift Guides 8 | For the Art and Designer Toy Collector<b><i>Previous gift guides shared:</i></b><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-1-for-makeupbeauty-fanatic.html">1:&nbsp;For the Makeup/Beauty Fanatic</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-2-for-your-favorite-nerd.html">2: For Your Favorite Nerd</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-3-for-traveler.html">3: For the Traveler</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-4-for-paper-crafter.html">4: For the Paper Crafter</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-5-for-kawaii-lover.html">5:&nbsp;For the Kawaii Lover</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-6-for-sweet-tooth.html">6: For the Sweet Tooth</a></i><br /><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-7-for-nature-lover.html"><i>7: For the Nature Lover</i></a><br /><i>Browse all gift guides&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/search/label/gift%20guides">here</a>.</i><br /><br />Art and designer toys are one of my personal vices. I love collecting things and have to have something from each of my favorite artists! This guide was one of my favorites to compile, because I love sharing talented artists with you guys. It can be a little bit difficult to buy art for someone else, since tastes vary so much. Here are my suggestions:<br /><br /><span style="color: purple;"><b>+ If you have a chance, take a look around their home or personal space.</b>&nbsp;For example - if you're purchasing for a coworker, this could be how someone decorates their cubicle. Take a note of their style (realistic vs. cartoony, photographs, themes) and color preferences.</span><br /><span style="color: purple;"><br /></span><b>+ If you don't have a chance to visit, think about their interests and how they style themselves. </b>Someone who loves high fashion might be into illustrations like #6, while a dinosaur-lover might like #10 or #12. A girl with pink hair would be chuffed to get an illustration of a pink-haired girl.<br /><br /><span style="color: purple;"><b>+ If in doubt, get a figurine.</b> They're small and unobstrusive and they can always be used to brighten up a work space if it doesn't fit your recipient's home decor.</span><br /><span style="color: purple;"><br /></span><b>+ Don't be afraid!</b> I've gotten art I loved and art that wasn't exactly my taste, but I always appreciate it. Art is such a personal gift and any art/toy collector will appreciate that you noticed their collection and wanted to add a piece to it. It helps add nostalgic value to their collection as well, knowing someone picked out this piece for them.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DbF_c2OxrrE/VHT6lXUg5KI/AAAAAAAAFv4/3i0dN78xeAo/s1600/Gift%2BGuide%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Bart%2Band%2Bdesigner%2Btoy%2Bcollector%2BKels%2BShark%2Bcolorful%2Bphotography%2Bphotographs%2Bfine%2Bart%2Bprints%2Bfigurines%2Btoys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DbF_c2OxrrE/VHT6lXUg5KI/AAAAAAAAFv4/3i0dN78xeAo/s1600/Gift%2BGuide%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Bart%2Band%2Bdesigner%2Btoy%2Bcollector%2BKels%2BShark%2Bcolorful%2Bphotography%2Bphotographs%2Bfine%2Bart%2Bprints%2Bfigurines%2Btoys.jpg" /></a></div><a name='more'></a><br /><b>1: Fairyhome |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/209329957"><b>Pastel Army Men Display</b></a><b>, $19.80 (sale: $17.82)</b><br />I've been eyeing Fairyhome for a while now - this gorgeous pastel army men display is unlike anything I've seen in other shops. There are lots more pretty, colorful, and rainbow-y goodies at Fairyhome&nbsp;<i>and</i>&nbsp;they're having a sale right now, so I'd&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/Fairyhome">check it out</a>!<br /><br /><b>2: The Loyal Subjects x Joe Ledbetter |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.theloyalsubjects.com/store/chaos-minis-blindbox-singles"><b>Chaos Minis Blindbox Singles</b></a><b>, $14.50</b><br /><div>Remember the giant zombie bunny from my <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/07/outfit-bunny-bunny-birthday.html">bunny bunny birthday outfit</a>? Joe Ledbetter designed a whole series of mini bunnies in blind boxes (you don't know which one it is until it's opened)!</div><br /><b>3: Kidrobot | </b><a href="http://www.kidrobot.com/collections/all/products/munny-reusable#.VHTre4vF98E"><b>Munny World 7" Munny w/ Reusable Markers</b></a><b>, $19.99</b><br />If your gift recipient likes designer toys and has a creative streak, they'll enjoy designing their own one-of-a-kind figure with this DIY set.<br /><br /><b>4: Cuddly Rigor Mortis |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://shop.cuddlyrigormortis.com/product/dogwood-mounted-giclee-print"><b>"Dogwood" Mounted Giclee Print</b></a><b>, $55</b><br />Kristin Tercek is another favorite artist of mine. These wood-mounted prints are ready to hang - no frame necessary! CRM art can also be found at <a href="http://www.shanalogic.com/cuddly-rigor-mortis">Shana Logic</a>. :)<br /><br /><b>5: Beth Mitchell Art |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/178416204"><b>"Sun Dancer" Limited Edition Mounted Print</b></a><b>, $77.86+</b><br />Beth's Beautiful, limited edition prints include photos from gorgeous, underwater photo shoots and more. Her work is brilliant and definitely unique!<br /><br /><b>6: Jessica Durant |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/127575864"><b>"Pink Bow"</b></a><b>&nbsp;Illustration Print, $25</b><br />Jessica's beautiful watercolor prints would be perfect for someone with an interest in fashion who lives in a trendy, modern apartment. Or for me. Bwahaha.<br /><br /><b>7: The Gorgonist |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/84533853"><b>"Tea for Two"</b></a><b>&nbsp;Print, $12</b><br />I can't even begin to pick a favorite print at The Gorgonist. With a ridiculously vast selection of fantasy, storybook, monster, literary, and other themed prints at very affordable prices, it's definitely the place to stop by for your art-loving friends.<br /><br /><b>8: Le Animale via Shana Logic |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.shanalogic.com/fine-art/fine-art-objects/miniature-animal-totem-le-fennec-fox.html"><b>Le Fennec Fox Miniature Animal Totem</b></a><b>, $24</b><br />I'm in love with all of the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.shanalogic.com/fine-art/fine-art-objects.html">fine art objects</a>&nbsp;(I own a few of them)&nbsp;at Shana Logic, but this little fox is at the top of my wish list.<br /><div><br /></div><b>9: Kendra Binney |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/89942018"><b>Copper Owl Limited Edition Necklace</b></a><b>, $30</b><br />Kendra is another favorite artist of mine - I actually have one of her original paintings. In addition to wood-mounted panels, Kendra offers these pretty, limited edition necklaces featuring artwork prints. You can check out more of her work <a href="http://www.kendra-binney.com/">here</a>.<br /><br /><b>10: Mab Graves |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/170083256"><b>Blue and the Brontosaur Fine Art Print</b></a><b>, $50</b><br />Yup, another favorite artist! You may recall hearing about her from my <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/08/blythecon-seattle-2014.html">Blythecon fan girl post</a>&nbsp;(when I met her in person). Heh. This is one of Mab's personal favorite pieces and there is also a framed version available&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/206354295">here</a>.<br /><br /><b>11: The Loyal Subjects x Les Schettkoe | </b><a href="https://www.theloyalsubjects.com/store/dinobots-shattered-glass-sdcc-2014-exclusive"><b>Dinobots Shattered Glass SDCC 2014 Exclusive</b></a><b>, $39.99</b><br />Any designer toy collector will love that this is an SDCC exclusive figurine. Dinos and robots: hard to beat that combo!<br /><br /><b>12: White Faux Taxidermy | </b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111834123"><b>Chrome Resin T-Rex Head</b></a><b>, $129.99</b><br />How cool is this faux taxidermy t-rex? WFT has a huge selection of wall-mounted faux taxidermy that any art collector would love. For a lower price point gift (but equally awesome), I'd go with this <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/104573021">lion head</a>.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Coming up Monday: Gift Guide for the Nail Enthusiast</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">P.S. I decided to skip Thanksgiving weekend in hopes that everyone (including myself) will be enjoying quality time with family and friends. As such, the next gift guide will be posted on Monday morning. :) Happy Thanksgiving! &lt;3</span>Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-46089568840236453912014-11-25T12:30:00.000-08:002014-11-25T12:45:39.282-08:00Gift Guides 7 | For the Nature Lover<b><i>Previous gift guides shared:</i></b><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-1-for-makeupbeauty-fanatic.html">1:&nbsp;For the Makeup/Beauty Fanatic</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-2-for-your-favorite-nerd.html">2: For Your Favorite Nerd</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-3-for-traveler.html">3: For the Traveler</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-4-for-paper-crafter.html">4: For the Paper Crafter</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-5-for-kawaii-lover.html">5:&nbsp;For the Kawaii Lover</a></i><br /><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-6-for-sweet-tooth.html"><i>6: For the Sweet Tooth</i></a><br /><i>Browse all gift guides&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/search/label/gift%20guides">here</a>.</i><br /><br />My personal relationship with nature is a bit tenuous. For my part, I've never taken great care of my plants (is there anything worse than a black thumb? That's what I have). Nature responds by sending me frequent and rather unpleasant allergy attacks. However, both the guy I'm dating and my best friend are much more into nature... and that's the point of a gift guide, right? To think up things other people would like! So here goes my attempt. :)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2pqtbEem87M/VHTkWENhDzI/AAAAAAAAFvo/3AUr3QvjuUY/s1600/Gift%2BGuide%2BFor%2Bthe%2BNature%2BLover%2BHiker%2BGarden%2BGardener%2BKels%2BShark%2BPlants%2BPlanters%2BRock%2BCollection%2BClothing%2BWater%2BBottle%2BJewelry%2BMae%2BChevrette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2pqtbEem87M/VHTkWENhDzI/AAAAAAAAFvo/3AUr3QvjuUY/s1600/Gift%2BGuide%2BFor%2Bthe%2BNature%2BLover%2BHiker%2BGarden%2BGardener%2BKels%2BShark%2BPlants%2BPlanters%2BRock%2BCollection%2BClothing%2BWater%2BBottle%2BJewelry%2BMae%2BChevrette.jpg" /></a></div><br /><a name='more'></a><b>1: Mae Chevrette |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/152626365"><b>"The Mountains Are Calling and I Must Go" Art Print</b></a><b>, $20+</b><br />Mae is one of my favorite artists - she puts together beautiful photography, painting, and quotes to create incredible collages. If you know someone who loves the mountains or the sea, Mae's shop is full of perfect prints for when they're at home, dreaming of being outside. :) I have two of her prints hanging up at home!<br /><b><br /></b><b>2: Scrappin Cop |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/124919212"><b>Queen Anne's Lace Resin Necklace</b></a><b>, $17.50</b><br />With over 40 listings of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/ScrappinCop">pressed flower jewelry</a>&nbsp;in a variety of colors and styles, Scrappin Cop carries a selection of ways to enjoy nature's beauty.<br /><div><br /></div><div><b>3: REI |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.rei.com/product/854046/rei-lookout-40-pack-womens"><b>Lookout 40 Pack</b></a><b>, $78.93</b><br />Tal has had a lot more hiking/backpacking experience than me, so I asked him for some recommendations. He thought most hikers would appreciate small, cute&nbsp;<a href="http://www.rei.com/c/day-packs">day packs</a>&nbsp;from REI for hiking trips, so I'm passing along this suggestion. :)</div><div><br /></div><b>4: Thrifted And Made | </b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/185669072"><b>Air Plant Planter</b></a><b>, $17+</b><br />I had the hardest time picking just one air plant planter to feature from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/ThriftedandMade">Thrifted and Made</a>. They're all so pretty! As someone with a black thumb, I can attest to air plants being pretty darn hardy. I have a few that have survived for <i>over a year</i>&nbsp;(and trust me, that is true accomplishment). There's an option to include an air plant with the planter for just $1 more. Plus, the shop offers <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/158795140">gift wrapping &amp; a card</a> in case you want to ship direct or save yourself some trouble. Brilliant!<br /><br /><b>5: Tobieanne |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/170210449"><b>15" Holiday Succulent Wreath</b></a><b>, $95</b><br />Last year, I ordered a succulent wreath from Tobieanne's shop for my mom and she loved it! After keeping it as a wreath for a while, she ended up replanting them in her backyard (I&nbsp;<a href="http://instagram.com/p/paIacgkigr">snapped a photo</a>&nbsp;when I visited this summer), where they're thriving. This festive holiday wreath would be such a pretty gift! Tobieanne also has some centerpieces and other succulent gifts in her&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/tobieanne">shop</a>&nbsp;at lower price points in case you're looking for a smaller gift!<br /><div><br /></div><b>6: Atlantis Shell Co |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/161613840/"><b>3-4" Orange Spiny Oyster Shell</b></a><b>, $3</b><br />This is one of my favorite shops for shells! I have a few of these spiny oysters and they are sooo pretty. I actually have a set of identical glass vases, each with different colored shells inside. You could put together a pretty cool gift for someone with a big glass vase and a bunch of shells in their favorite color, stacking them to create an ombre effect, or picking shells in different colors and stacking them in rainbow order. :)<br /><br /><b>7: The Green Coyote | </b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/202083494"><b>Rock, Mineral, and Gem Storage/Display Tray</b></a><b>, $38</b><br />If you've followed along from the start, you may recall my <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/07/rainbow-printer-trays-organization-shop.html">rainbow printer tray organization post</a>. I bought the three printer trays from The Green Coyote. Steve offers this smaller tray that would be perfect for showing off a found objects collection. If you know anyone who likes to bring back souvenirs from their hikes, like pretty rocks, they would love this sweet display case!<br /><br /><b>8: Arcteryx |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://arcteryx.com/product.aspx?language=EN&amp;gender=Mens&amp;category=Base_Layer&amp;model=Phase-SV-Zip-Neck-LS"><b>Phase LV Zip Neck LS Men's</b></a><b>, $85</b><br />This is Tal's favorite brand for outdoor gear - the price tag for Arcteryx apparel is steep, but anyone who goes outside a lot in the fall and winter will appreciate it! Some Arcteryx products can be found at REI if you prefer in-person shopping.<br /><div><br /></div><b>9: Cubits |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/187234558"><b>Colorful Vegetable Garden Seed Gift Set</b></a><b>, $30</b><br />If you know someone who loves their vegetable garden, they'll appreciate this set of eight organic, heirloom vegetable seed packs. Cubits offers a variety of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/cubits?section_id=7400749">seed packs</a>&nbsp;at different price points, including mixes specific to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/189521538">urban/balcony gardening</a>&nbsp;and other situations.<br /><br /><b>10: Rhythmic Metal |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/210453068"><b>24oz Etched Stainless Steel Water Bottle</b></a><b>, $50</b><br />The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/RhythmicMetal?section_id=16337233">etched water bottles</a>&nbsp;at Rhythmic Metal are pretty freaking cool! Any of these would make a great, pretty and practical gift for a hiker. I also have to admit that there's a special place in my heart for Portland, OR shops, since my hometown is a suburb of Portland. :)<br /><div><br /></div><div><b>11: The Fysh Store |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/185888082"><b>Set of 8 Herb Markers</b></a><b>, $33+</b><br />How brilliant are these? Recycled vintage silverware turned into gorgeous herb garden markers. Love! These would be perfect for anyone with an indoor, potted herb garden. I also found similar listings&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/208775444">here</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/96902386">here</a>.<br /><br /></div><b>12: Fujifilm | </b><a href="http://www.bestbuy.com/site/fujifilm-instax-mini-8-instant-film-camera-white/1319409.p"><b>Instax Mini 8 Instant Film Camera</b></a><b>, $69.99</b><br />The Instax is an instant camera (think Polaroid) that comes in five colors. I've <a href="http://www.thedaintysquid.com/2014/11/four-instant-cameras.html">read</a> that it works best in natural light and sometimes has unpredictable (but always cool) results. Its tiny size helps make it a really fun gadget for anyone who likes to explore - they could easily bring it along on an adventure and document interesting things along the way. Just don't forget to pick up some <a href="http://www.bestbuy.com/site/fujifilm-instax-mini-instant-color-film-2-pack/2015049.p">film</a> for your recipient as well!<br /><br /><b><i>Coming up tomorrow: Gift Guide for the Art and Designer Toy Collector</i></b>Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-41168688403139000562014-11-24T08:30:00.000-08:002014-11-24T11:32:36.740-08:00Gift Guides 6 | For the Sweet Tooth<b><i>Previous gift guides shared:</i></b><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-1-for-makeupbeauty-fanatic.html">1:&nbsp;For the Makeup/Beauty Fanatic</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-2-for-your-favorite-nerd.html">2: For Your Favorite Nerd</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-3-for-traveler.html">3: For the Traveler</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-4-for-paper-crafter.html">4: For the Paper Crafter</a></i><br /><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-5-for-kawaii-lover.html"><i>5:&nbsp;For the Kawaii Lover</i></a><br /><i>Browse all gift guides <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/search/label/gift%20guides">here</a>.</i><br /><br />Being a dessert-lover myself, I barely had to do any searches to find these delicious goodies! Lots of scrumptious sweets and sweet-inspired goods.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sl5thqQj0gU/VHL_O1utFBI/AAAAAAAAFvY/pwzCxJ1xGn0/s1600/kels%2Bshark%2Bgift%2Bguide%2B6%2Bchristmas%2B2014%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Btooth%2Bdesserts%2Bcupcakes%2Bcandy%2Bgummies%2Bice%2Bcream%2Btarts%2Bchocolate%2Bjewelry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sl5thqQj0gU/VHL_O1utFBI/AAAAAAAAFvY/pwzCxJ1xGn0/s1600/kels%2Bshark%2Bgift%2Bguide%2B6%2Bchristmas%2B2014%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Bsweet%2Btooth%2Bdesserts%2Bcupcakes%2Bcandy%2Bgummies%2Bice%2Bcream%2Btarts%2Bchocolate%2Bjewelry.jpg" /></a></div><br /><a name='more'></a><b>1: Jennifer Shea |&nbsp;</b><b><a href="http://smile.amazon.com/Trophy-Cupcakes-Parties-Deliciously-Prize-Winning/dp/157061864X">Trophy Cupcakes and Parties! (Book)</a></b><b>, $24.95 retail</b><br />Trophy is my favorite local Seattle cupcake shop, so you can imagine how thrilled I was when Jennifer Shea released a cupcake book! It's full of party ideas, party planning tips, and signature cupcake recipes.<br /><br /><b>2: Sugarfina |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.sugarfina.com/collections/gummies/products/sugar-mama-giftset"><b>Sugar Mama Giftset</b></a><b>, $25</b><br />There are over 130 types of candies and chocolates at Sugarfina! They have a lot of pretty gift collections and an entire&nbsp;<a href="http://www.sugarfina.com/collections/gifts-under-25">$25 and under</a>&nbsp;section.<br /><br /><b>3: Dottie's Diner |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/72656467"><b>Hostess Cupcake Apron</b></a><b>, $80</b><br />This one's on my wish list! Dottie's Diner has a nice selection of gorgeous aprons.<br /><br /><b>4: Uncommon Goods | </b><a href="http://www.uncommongoods.com/product/gummy-bear-lights"><b>Gummy Bear Lights</b></a><b>, $27.99</b><br />These little bears are also on my own wish list - so cute and delicious!<br /><br /><b>5: Sweets by Raine |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/122216669"><b>Cherry Kiss Cookies</b></a><b>, $19.95 for 1 pound</b><br />These cherry kiss cookies are perfect for the holidays.<br /><br /><b>6: The Frosted Petticoat |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/201554905"><b>Chocolate Violet Throne</b></a><b>, $13.50</b><br />How cute is this chocolate throne?<br /><br /><b>7: The Cravory |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://thecravory.com/product/teaser-box-6-cookies-prepaid-6-months/"><b>Teaser Box 6 Cookies</b></a><b>, $90 for 6 months</b><br />These gourmet cookies make my mouth water! The Cravory has&nbsp;<a href="https://thecravory.com/product-category/subscriptions/">prepaid subscriptions</a>&nbsp;available in various amounts and lengths.<br /><br /><b>8: Kelsea Echo | </b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/209263691"><b>Ice Cream Lover Ring</b></a><b>, $10</b><br />Your gift recipient can show off their love of dessert with this heart-shaped ice cream ring (from my shop)!<br /><br /><b>9: Johnny Cupcakes |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://shop.johnnycupcakes.com/products/classic-crewneck"><b>Classic Crossbones Crewneck</b></a><b>, $48</b><br />Know someone who likes cupcakes but prefers badass over cutesy? This crewneck is perfect. My boyfriend and I both have some Johnny Cupcakes apparel and love them.<br /><br /><b>10: Fatally Feminine | </b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/175236517"><b>Scented Cookie Earrings</b></a><b>, $32</b><br />I shared another FFD design in my <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/four-ways-to-make-easy-online-wish-list.html">easy online wish lists</a> post - can you tell how addicted I am? These cute, scented cookies remind me of the Queen of Hearts from Alice in Wonderland. :)<br /><br /><b>11: Xocolatl Chocolate | </b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/86398647"><b>Mint Chocolate Bark</b></a><b>, $7.95 for 8oz</b><br />Esther Aguirre makes the most amazing chocolate! I've ordered many times and the mint chocolate bark is one of my consistent favorites. Guaranteed to make any sweet tooth grin like a madman.<br /><br /><b>12: Molly Moon |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://smile.amazon.com/Molly-Moons-Homemade-Ice-Cream/dp/1570618100"><b>Homemade Ice Cream (Book)</b></a><b>, $21.95 retail</b><br />Like Trophy Cupcakes, this is a recipe book from another Seattle shop owner! I got this book a while back for my friend, Carolyn, who (unlike me) is not too lazy to make her own ice cream. She and her fiancee have tried most of the recipes in the book and given them rave reviews.<br /><br /><b><i>Coming up tomorrow: Gift Guide for the Nature Lover</i></b>Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-6116115644633434992014-11-23T08:30:00.000-08:002014-11-23T08:30:01.538-08:00Gift Guides 5 | For the Kawaii Lover<b><i>Previous gift guides shared:</i></b><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-1-for-makeupbeauty-fanatic.html">1:&nbsp;For the Makeup/Beauty Fanatic</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-2-for-your-favorite-nerd.html">2: For Your Favorite Nerd</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-3-for-traveler.html">3: For the Traveler</a></i><br /><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-4-for-paper-crafter.html"><i>4: For the Paper Crafter</i></a><br /><i>Browse all gift guides <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/search/label/gift%20guides">here</a>.</i><br /><br />For that friend who wears <a href="http://kigurumi-shop.com/">kigurumi</a> pajamas and has a sizeable Hello Kitty collection!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1aJHjs9xfsA/VG21BFAcXZI/AAAAAAAAFvI/0G1eAXjcPHo/s1600/gift%2Bguides%2B5%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Bkawaii%2Blover%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bchristmas%2B2014%2Bpink%2Bblue%2Bpastels%2Bpastel%2Bgirl%2Bgirly%2Bgifts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1aJHjs9xfsA/VG21BFAcXZI/AAAAAAAAFvI/0G1eAXjcPHo/s1600/gift%2Bguides%2B5%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Bkawaii%2Blover%2Bkels%2Bshark%2Bchristmas%2B2014%2Bpink%2Bblue%2Bpastels%2Bpastel%2Bgirl%2Bgirly%2Bgifts.jpg" /></a></div><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><b>1: Kawaii Box | </b><a href="http://www.kawaiibox.com/shop/kawaii-box-gift-subscription/"><b>3-Month Subscription</b></a><b>, $56.70</b><br />Three months of surprise Kawaii goodies... yes, please! This one's on my personal wish list! ;)<br /><br /><b>2: Caramelaw |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/203732582"><b>Sweet Mischiefs Canvas</b></a><b>, $36</b><br />You may remember Caramelaw from her <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/10/indie-interviews-sheena-of-caramelaw.html">interview</a> - Sheena's entire <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/iamcaramelaw">shop</a> is full of her awesome kawaii illustrations!<br /><br /><b>3: Yummy You | </b><a href="http://www.yummyyouclothing.com/youniverse-tee"><b>Yummy You-niverse Tee</b></a><b>, $24.99</b><br />Twinkie Chan's Yummy You line is adorable <i>and</i>&nbsp;affordable - this space t-shirt features a cute Twinkie astronaut!<br /><br /><b>4: So So Happy | </b><a href="http://sosohappystore.com/collections/hoodies/products/siq-rainbow-hoodie-in-black"><b>Siq Hoodie in Rainbow in Black</b></a><b>, $54</b><br />You can pretend to be one of So So Happy's adorable characters with its wide selection of <a href="http://sosohappystore.com/collections/hoodies">hoodies</a>! I have the Ozzie hoodie and So So Happy's cute&nbsp;<a href="http://sosohappystore.com/collections/books/products/so-so-happy-hardcover-book">book</a>.<br /><br /><b>5: Kelsea Echo |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/200828778"><b>Alice and the Blue Mushroom Stud Earrings</b></a><b>, $22</b><br /><div>My shop is mostly full of kawaii jewelry - this stud earring set from the Wonderland Collection is one of my personal faves. :)</div><div><br /></div><div><b>6: Amuse |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.tofucute.com/alpacasso-alpaca-rainbow-giant-plush~p1403.html"><b>Alpacasso Giant Plush</b></a><b>, £29.99</b></div><div>I have my own <a href="http://instagram.com/p/rfx1K-Eiro">Alpacasso BFF</a> and he's sooo soft and adorable! Guaranteed to make any kawaii lover squeal in delight. You can find these cuties elsewhere, too - I got mine at Anime World. Just search for "alpacasso"!</div><br /><b>7: Kimchi Kawaii via Shana Logic |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.shanalogic.com/mochi-bunny.html"><b>Mochi Bunny!</b></a><b>&nbsp;- Vanilla, $15</b><br />Mochi bunny is angry. O_O<br /><br /><b>8: Dolly Darling | </b><a href="http://dollydarling.bigcartel.com/product/pic-n-mix-deer-headband"><b>Pic N Mix Deer Headband</b></a><b>, £35</b><br />This beautiful headband by <a href="http://www.cupcakesclothes.com/">Georgina</a> is super sweet!<br /><br /><b>9: Sugar Junkie |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/91382024"><b>Cotton Candy Christmas 8x10 Art Print</b></a><b>, $15</b><br />I shared the <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/shopping-guide-2-bold-leggings.html">sparkle mermaid leggings</a>&nbsp;in&nbsp;last week's shopping guide. Basically, everything in Jamie's <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/SugarJunkieShop">shop</a> is amazing!<br /><br /><b><i>Coming up tomorrow: Gift Guide for the Sweet Tooth</i></b>Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-37170104864701834422014-11-22T08:30:00.000-08:002014-12-03T20:36:29.152-08:00Gift Guides 4 | For the Paper Crafter<b><i>Previous gift guides shared:</i></b><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-1-for-makeupbeauty-fanatic.html">1:&nbsp;For the Makeup/Beauty Fanatic</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-2-for-your-favorite-nerd.html">2: For Your Favorite Nerd</a></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-3-for-traveler.html">3: For the Traveler</a>&nbsp;(The travel journals I shared here would also be fun for any paper crafter!)</i><br /><i>Browse all gift guides <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/search/label/gift%20guides">here</a>.</i><br /><br />This guide was easy to put together, since these are all things I'd love to get as a gift or stocking stuffer! :) If I were shopping for someone who loved paper crafting, I'd grab a mix of goodies like the ones below and present them in a little basket or useful container of some sort.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KdwNbWxDgks/VG2hSLW8CoI/AAAAAAAAFu8/wcXvfWdmGAw/s1600/kels%2Bshark%2B2014%2Bchristmas%2Bgift%2Bguide%2B4%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Bpaper%2Bcrafter%2Bpaper%2Bgoods%2Bcrafty%2Bpeople.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KdwNbWxDgks/VG2hSLW8CoI/AAAAAAAAFu8/wcXvfWdmGAw/s1600/kels%2Bshark%2B2014%2Bchristmas%2Bgift%2Bguide%2B4%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Bpaper%2Bcrafter%2Bpaper%2Bgoods%2Bcrafty%2Bpeople.jpg" /></a></div><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><b>1: Paper and Pinafore |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/73682449"><b>Set of Baker's Twine</b></a><b>, $20</b><br />I love using baker's twine for all sorts of projects and packaging! This fun rainbow set would be really useful for card-making or scrapbooking.<br /><br /><b>2: Bellacreationz4u |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/101988138"><b>Blank Carnival Tickets</b></a><b>, $3.50</b><br />Carnival tickets make fun ephemera! These are blank, so your recipient can add their own designs to the tickets if they'd like.<br /><br /><b>3: In the Clear |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/107390466"><b>Mini Colorful Shipping Tags</b></a><b>, $9.75</b><br />Can you tell I'm into rainbow supply sets? :) These shipping tags would be great project bases, for gift tags, bookmarks, or other paper projects.<br /><br /><b>4: Jenny Heid &amp;Aaron Niradka |&nbsp;<a href="http://smile.amazon.com/Mixed-Media-Masterpieces-Jenny-Aaron/dp/1624140289">Mixed Media Masterpieces with Jenny and Aaron</a>, $19.99 retail</b><br />If you saw my <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/10/how-to-make-your-own-coasters-project.html">Sweet Life Coaster Set project</a>, you probably know how obsessed I am with <a href="http://everyday-is-a-holiday.blogspot.com/">Jenny and Aaron</a>'s work. I have this book of theirs, containing all sorts of mixed media projects, many of them involving paper techniques. It's seriously awesome - I've tried out a few of the techniques I learned from the book in my projects!<br /><br /><b>5: Basil &amp; Fluffy | </b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/156114008"><b>10 Random Washi Tape Rolls</b></a><b>, $25</b><br />Every paper crafter loves washi tape. Pretty sure it's a rule of the universe. This set is a pretty good deal!<br /><br /><b>6: Everyday is a Holiday |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://everydayisaholiday.bigcartel.com/product/talk-thought-bubble-sticker-sheet-set"><b>Talk &amp; Thought Bubble Sticker Sheet</b></a><b>, $16.50</b><br />See 4 above! Heh. More Jenny &amp; Aaron goodies - these thought bubble stickers would be fun for card-making, scrapbooking, or art journaling.<br /><br /><b>7: Renea Bouquets | </b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/157344265"><b>Butterfly Scrapbook Embellishment Set</b></a><b>, $3.35</b><br />Renea sells trios of gorgeous, handmade butterfly and dragonfly scrapbook adornments in every color imaginable. They're beautifully detailed, with German glitter glass embellishments and wire antennae.<br /><br /><b>8: Creative Place | </b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/185339403"><b>Bundle of Vintage Map Pages</b></a><b>, $3.50</b><br />I can imagine about a million uses for these vintage map pages and I bet your favorite paper crafter can too!<br /><br /><b>9: Copic | </b><a href="http://www.dickblick.com/products/copic-sketch-marker-sets"><b>Pale Pastels Set of 6</b></a><b>, $31.46</b><br />These are basically the ultimate dream markers for anyone who's serious about their illustrations. A lot of card makers like to get digi-stamps (kinda like coloring pages) and color them in beautifully with copic markers.<br /><br /><b><i>Coming up tomorrow: Gift Guide for the Kawaii Lover</i></b>Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-47062884856122675942014-11-21T08:30:00.000-08:002014-11-21T08:30:00.039-08:00Gift Guides 3 | For the Traveler<b><i>Previous gift guides shared:</i></b><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-1-for-makeupbeauty-fanatic.html">1:&nbsp;For the Makeup/Beauty Fanatic</a>&nbsp;(the accessory pouches I shared would also be great gifts for travelers!)</i><br /><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-2-for-your-favorite-nerd.html"><i>2: For Your Favorite Nerd</i></a><br /><i>Browse all gift guides <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/search/label/gift%20guides">here</a>.</i><br /><br />Have a friend or family member who has been bitten by wanderlust? Whether they prefer jumping in the car and heading out on a road trip or checking in at a historic hotel, they'll love something in this guide. :)<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">TRAVEL BAGS</span></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ppzza7KGNkA/VGnUE0GWUqI/AAAAAAAAFuI/8p67LAiJqdQ/s1600/kels%2Bshark%2Bgift%2Bguide%2B3%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Btraveler%2Bholiday%2Bchristmas%2Btravel%2Bgifts%2B2014%2B-%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ppzza7KGNkA/VGnUE0GWUqI/AAAAAAAAFuI/8p67LAiJqdQ/s1600/kels%2Bshark%2Bgift%2Bguide%2B3%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Btraveler%2Bholiday%2Bchristmas%2Btravel%2Bgifts%2B2014%2B-%2B1.jpg" /></a></div><b>1: Tokidoki x Ju.Ju.Be |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://shop.tokidoki.it/bags/tokidoki-x-ju-ju-be-be-right-back-backpack-sea-amo.html"><b>Be Right Back Sea Amo Backpack</b></a><b>, $148</b><br />Ju.Ju.Be actually makes bags for parents, but even for those who aren't parents, these backs rock! I have one of these in a different (now retired) print and get compliments on it all of the time. Super functional - lots of space and slots for everything you need. I always use it as my carry-on for traveling. Tokidoki has a lot more&nbsp;<a href="http://shop.tokidoki.it/bags">awesome bags</a>&nbsp;too that would be ideal to bring when traveling.<br /><br /><b>2: Betsey Johnson |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.betseyjohnson.com/Item.aspx?id=106003"><b>Clear to Me Tote</b></a><b>, $98</b><br />This cute bag is the perfect weekender bag size - just enough room for a pair of shoes, a few outfits, and a makeup pouch!<br /><br /><b>3: Free People | </b><a href="http://www.freepeople.com/road-trip-rolly-bag/_/cmCategoryID/3f4fea4f-86a9-4447-9e96-bab6a05ea793/"><b>Road Trip Rolly Bag</b></a><b>, $168</b><br />This gorgeous hard case luggage is made to fit within TSA approved carryon dimensions.<br /><br /><b>4: Creazionidiangelina |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/196112954"><b>Waxed Canvas Travel Bag</b></a><b>, $321</b><br />This classy, sturdy bag would make a great gift for a male traveler with classic style.<br /><br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">LUGGAGE TAGS &amp; ORGANIZATION</span></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0qVX87ogpc0/VGnUKrW28iI/AAAAAAAAFuQ/seQrGUtEUh8/s1600/kels%2Bshark%2Bgift%2Bguide%2B3%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Btraveler%2Bholiday%2Bchristmas%2Btravel%2Bgifts%2B2014%2B-%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0qVX87ogpc0/VGnUKrW28iI/AAAAAAAAFuQ/seQrGUtEUh8/s1600/kels%2Bshark%2Bgift%2Bguide%2B3%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Btraveler%2Bholiday%2Bchristmas%2Btravel%2Bgifts%2B2014%2B-%2B2.jpg" /></a></div><b>5: Linlainecoton |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/208493615"><b>Travel Bag Set of 3</b></a><b>, $50</b><br />These travel bags are brilliant! One for laundry, one for underwear, and another for shoes. All clearly marked. I need a set of these for inside my suitcase.<br /><br /><b>6: Papaya! Art |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://papayaart.com/papaya/accessories/jewelry-cases.html"><b>Hanging Jewelry Cases</b></a><b>, $28</b><br />I have one of these jewelry cases - they have three big compartments for keeping jewelry pieces safe while traveling.<br /><br /><b>7: Papaya! Art |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://papayaart.com/papaya/accessories/luggage-tags.html"><b>Luggage Tags</b></a><b>, $10</b><br />I have one of these - Papaya! Art's beautiful, signature pieces are bold and noticeable!<br /><br /><b>8: Kate Spade |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.saturday.com/Passport-Case-in-Gold-Dot/4JRU0305,en_US,pd.html"><b>Passport Case in Gold Dot</b></a><b>, $50</b><br />This pretty case holds a passport and a few cards (ID, metro card, credit cards). Great for stylish international travelers.<br /><br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">THINGS TO BRING</span></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GySXeSe3AZo/VGnUO2NF6CI/AAAAAAAAFuY/SeeN7weiyLE/s1600/kels%2Bshark%2Bgift%2Bguide%2B3%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Btraveler%2Bholiday%2Bchristmas%2Btravel%2Bgifts%2B2014%2B-%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GySXeSe3AZo/VGnUO2NF6CI/AAAAAAAAFuY/SeeN7weiyLE/s1600/kels%2Bshark%2Bgift%2Bguide%2B3%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Btraveler%2Bholiday%2Bchristmas%2Btravel%2Bgifts%2B2014%2B-%2B3.jpg" /></a></div><b>9: Badbooks |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/150075060"><b>Semper Fidelis Travel Journal</b></a><b>, $35</b><br />These gorgeous travel journals (more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/badbooks?section_id=6016315">here</a>) are handmade with a variety of papers and envelopes. They come in a miniature size - perfect for bringing on travels.<br /><br /><b>10: Janelle McCulloch |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://smile.amazon.com/Paris-Inspiring-Citys-Creative-Heart/dp/1452113858"><b>Paris: An Inspiring Tour of the City's Creative Heart</b></a><b>, $27.50 retail</b><br />Tal bought me this book last year - it's full of pretty photographs and information on little secret spots throughout Paris.<br /><br /><b>11: Reader's Digest |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/0762107944"><b>Off the Beaten Path</b></a><b>, $30 retail</b><br />This book is great for U.S. road trippers - it's sorted by state and including maps and info about less well-traveled spots throughout the country.<br /><br /><b>12: Modcloth | </b><a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/music/the-fox-and-the-sound-earbuds"><b>The Fox and the Sound Earbuds</b></a><b>, $14.99</b><br />These small, adorable earbuds would make listening to music on the plane just a little more fun.<br /><br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">THINGS FOR HOME</span></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DcW4_-p5oxI/VGnUSFdylhI/AAAAAAAAFug/_eAfMT4wct0/s1600/kels%2Bshark%2Bgift%2Bguide%2B3%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Btraveler%2Bholiday%2Bchristmas%2Btravel%2Bgifts%2B2014%2B-%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DcW4_-p5oxI/VGnUSFdylhI/AAAAAAAAFug/_eAfMT4wct0/s1600/kels%2Bshark%2Bgift%2Bguide%2B3%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Btraveler%2Bholiday%2Bchristmas%2Btravel%2Bgifts%2B2014%2B-%2B4.jpg" /></a></div><b>13: Plastique |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/158506455"><b>London Skyline Acrylic Necklace</b></a><b>, $27</b><br />Plastique has several different city skyline necklaces&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/plastique/search?search_query=skyline">available</a>. It may even include one of your recipient's favorite cities! :)<br /><br /><b>14: Conde Nast Traveler |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.magazinestoresubscriptions.com/conde-nast-traveler.html"><b>2-Year Subscription</b></a><b>, $20</b><br /><i>The</i>&nbsp;magazine for the voracious traveler.<br /><div><br /></div><div><b>15: Nichole Robertson |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://smile.amazon.com/Paris-Color-Nichole-Robertson/dp/1452105944/"><b>Paris in Color</b></a><b>, $19.95 retail</b><br />This beautiful photography book would make a lovely gift for someone who dreams of Paris.</div><div><br /></div><b>16: Paper Plane Prints |&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/177782968"><b>DIY Travel Map Kit</b></a><b>, $28+</b><br />This pretty kit comes with an 11x14" world map print and a set of heart stickers that can be used to track cities visited. There's also a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/167042405">U.S. map</a>&nbsp;available.<br /><br /><br /><b><i>Coming up tomorrow: Gift Guide for the Paper Crafter</i></b>Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7588967768592880985.post-27351002639817477092014-11-20T08:30:00.000-08:002014-12-02T19:18:59.027-08:00Gift Guides 2 | For Your Favorite Nerd<i><b>Previous gift guides shared:</b></i><br /><i><a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/2014/11/gift-guides-1-for-makeupbeauty-fanatic.html">1:&nbsp;For the Makeup/Beauty Fanatic</a></i><br /><i>Browse all gift guides <a href="http://www.kelsshark.com/search/label/gift%20guides">here</a>.</i><br /><b><u><br /></u></b><b><u>WARNING</u>: Friends and family spoiler alert! Some of the items below may or may not have been purchased as gifts for this year... :)</b><br /><br />I'm a partial nerd (former gamer) dating a full nerd. Both of us have plenty of friends and family who are nerdy in their own ways too, so looking for nerdy gifts is commonplace around birthdays and the holidays! First, we categorize the recipient's "nerd type" - does he or she love a particular movie, TV show, video game, or superhero? From there, I start hunting down gifts in those themes.Here are a few of my favorites from this year's search!<br /><br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">ALL-AROUND NERD</span></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QTyisSRqm5Q/VGmRddQmPCI/AAAAAAAAFt0/n75QmsICUmQ/s1600/Kels%2BShark%2BNerd%2BGift%2BGuide%2BFor%2BYour%2BFavorite%2BNerd%2BChristmas%2BHolidays%2B2014%2B-%2B01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QTyisSRqm5Q/VGmRddQmPCI/AAAAAAAAFt0/n75QmsICUmQ/s1600/Kels%2BShark%2BNerd%2BGift%2BGuide%2BFor%2BYour%2BFavorite%2BNerd%2BChristmas%2BHolidays%2B2014%2B-%2B01.jpg" /></a></div><b>1: Loot Crate |</b>&nbsp;<b>Gift Subscription</b><b>, <a href="http://gifts.lootcrate.com/collections/shop-all/products/us-gift-subscription">US $20+</a>; <a href="http://gifts.lootcrate.com/collections/shop-all/products/intl-gift-subscription">International $35+</a></b><br />Box of nerdy goodness worth at least $40, delivered each month to the recipient. I purchased Tal a gift subscription last year and he loved it.&nbsp;<b>Thank you to Clarence</b>&nbsp;for letting me know that&nbsp;<b>Loot Crate now offers gift subscriptions</b> in one, three, or six month intervals! :)<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">MOVIES/TV NERD</span></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1G1LY2gn9mE/VGmQwP4NNjI/AAAAAAAAFtc/NmVu6gqWgFk/s1600/Kels%2BShark%2BNerd%2BGift%2BGuide%2BFor%2BYour%2BFavorite%2BNerd%2BChristmas%2BHolidays%2B2014%2B-%2B02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1G1LY2gn9mE/VGmQwP4NNjI/AAAAAAAAFtc/NmVu6gqWgFk/s1600/Kels%2BShark%2BNerd%2BGift%2BGuide%2BFor%2BYour%2BFavorite%2BNerd%2BChristmas%2BHolidays%2B2014%2B-%2B02.jpg" /></a></div><b>2: Hulu Plus | </b><a href="https://secure.hulu.com/plus/buy#sid=20977E358E2BEE7BA13E8CFC7C71A520"><b>3-Month Subscription</b></a><b>, $23.97</b><br />Know someone who loves watching the latest TV shows? Discreetly check if they have a Hulu+ subscription. If not, they'll appreciate convenient access to some of the most popular shows' newest episodes.<br /><br /><b>3: Think Geek | </b><a href="http://www.thinkgeek.com/product/1546/"><b>Direwolf Pup Plush</b></a><b>, $19.99</b><br />Perfect for the friend who considers the Red Wedding the worst thing that happened to them in 2013. Pretty sure every Game of Thrones fan dreams of owning their very own direwolf. Hell, I'm not even a GoT fan and I want a direwolf!<br /><br /><b>4: Ian Doescher | William Shakespeare's </b><a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/william-shakespeares-star-wars-ian-doescher/1114194467"><b>Star Wars</b></a><b>,</b> <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/william-shakespeares-the-empire-striketh-back-ian-doescher/1116321280"><b>The Empire Striketh Back</b></a><b>,</b> <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/william-shakespeares-the-jedi-doth-return-ian-doescher/1117004683"><b>The Jedi Doth Return</b></a><b>,</b> <b>$14.95 each @ retail</b><br />Star Wars... re-written as if by Shakespeare. Need I say more?<br /><br /><b>5: Mimoco | </b><a href="https://www.mimoco.com/mimobot#?offset=0&amp;limit=27&amp;filters=%7B%22Style%22:%5B%22star%20wars%22%5D%7D"><b>Mimobot USB Drives - Star Wars</b></a><b>, $14.99+</b><br />Admiral Akbar's head is extra big, ready to store valuable files in his trusty noggin'.<br /><br /><b><br /></b><b><span style="font-size: large;">SUPERHERO NERD</span></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iowGyV6IoAs/VGmQzn4EP3I/AAAAAAAAFtk/WjuLFflkgak/s1600/Kels%2BShark%2BNerd%2BGift%2BGuide%2BFor%2BYour%2BFavorite%2BNerd%2BChristmas%2BHolidays%2B2014%2B-%2B03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iowGyV6IoAs/VGmQzn4EP3I/AAAAAAAAFtk/WjuLFflkgak/s1600/Kels%2BShark%2BNerd%2BGift%2BGuide%2BFor%2BYour%2BFavorite%2BNerd%2BChristmas%2BHolidays%2B2014%2B-%2B03.jpg" /></a></div><br /><b>6: Think Geek |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.thinkgeek.com/product/ead0/"><b>Iron Man Hoodie</b></a><b>, $59.99</b><br />I'm not particularly into superheroes and even I want this hoodie.<br /><br /><b>7: Camilla d'Errico | </b><a href="http://camilladerrico.bigcartel.com/product/octofight-comikaze-exclusive-print"><b>Octofight Comikaze 2014 Exclusive Print</b></a><b>, $20</b><br />Another awesome print by popular artist Camilla d'Errico - this one's a leftover Comikaze exclusive print, so it's limited edition to boot.<br /><br /><b>8: Think Geek |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.thinkgeek.com/product/hspq/"><b>DC Comics: A Visual History</b></a><b>, $49.99</b><br />Perfect for the superhero fan who's really in it for the comics (instead of or in addition to the movies).<br /><br /><b>9: Think Geek |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.thinkgeek.com/product/1e65/?cpg=fbl_1e65"><b>Guardians of the Galaxy Blind Box Figurines</b></a><b>, $7</b><br />These super cute figurines are affordable <i>and</i>&nbsp;perfect for anyone who raved about one of this more recent (and extremely well-received) superhero movie. It's a blind box, so which figurine your recipient receives be a surprise!<br /><br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">VIDEO GAME NERD</span></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dCs-tLxjbQ8/VGmQ3eIoPDI/AAAAAAAAFts/sHMu96ywnq0/s1600/Kels%2BShark%2BNerd%2BGift%2BGuide%2BFor%2BYour%2BFavorite%2BNerd%2BChristmas%2BHolidays%2B2014%2B-%2B04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dCs-tLxjbQ8/VGmQ3eIoPDI/AAAAAAAAFts/sHMu96ywnq0/s1600/Kels%2BShark%2BNerd%2BGift%2BGuide%2BFor%2BYour%2BFavorite%2BNerd%2BChristmas%2BHolidays%2B2014%2B-%2B04.jpg" /></a></div><b>10: Blizzard |&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Art-Blizzard-Entertainment-Nick-Carpenter/dp/1608870278"><b>The Art of Blizzard Entertainment</b></a><b>, $75 retail</b><br />Excellent gift for the WoW/Diablo players you know of - especially if they tend to appreciate graphics and game art. We got this for one of Tal's friends last year and he loved it!<br /><br /><b>11: Shirt Woot | </b><a href="http://shirt.woot.com/offers/console-wars-ii"><b>Console Wars II</b></a><b>, $15</b><br />Tal has this shirt (just a heads up - he got it from a previous loot crate, so anyone who had a subscription last year <i>may</i>&nbsp;already own it). It's one of his favorites, for both the print and its super soft, comfy fabric.<br /><br /><b>12: Cloud9 | </b><a href="http://store.cloud9.gg/products/pro-white-cloud9-hoodie"><b>Pro White Cloud9 Hoodie</b></a><b>, $59.99</b><br />League of Legends players can pretend they're one of the pros with this hoodie (complete with sponsor logos). I bought Tal the plain version of the hoodie last year (before the sponsor version was released) and he loves it. It's super soft and he also has fun when fellow LoL players recognize the team hoodie when we're out and about. Just make sure your recipient isn't a TSM fan! :)<br /><br /><b>13: Funko Pop! | </b><a href="http://smile.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&amp;field-keywords=funko%20pop%20assassins%20creed&amp;sprefix=funko+pop+as%2Caps"><b>Assassin's Creed Figurines</b></a><b>, $8.76+</b><br />Funko has come out with a <i>ton</i>&nbsp;of cute figurines spanning all sorts of nerdy realms, so check out their other figurines too.<br /><br /><br /><i><b>Coming up tomorrow: Gift Guide for the Traveler!</b></i>Kelsea Echohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776601093852299186noreply@blogger.com4